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H I STORY
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THE FIRST NATIONAL
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CHICAGO
M. A. DONOHUE & CO.
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
President
James B. Forgan
Vice-Presidents
Howard H. Hitchcock Frank O. Wetmore Emile K. Boisot
August Blum Charles N. Gillett Charles H. Newhall
M. D. Witkowsky Arthur W. Newton
Cashier
Henry A. Howland
Assistant Cashiers
William H. Monroe Edward S. Thomas John P. Oleson H. H. Heins
A. C. C. Timm William J. Lawlor John F. Hagey
R. F. Newhall George H. Dunscomb
Auditing Department
H. L. Droegemueller, Auditor
Clerical and Bookkeeping Departments
William H. Monroe, Ass't Cashier
Credit and Statistical Department
J. W. Lynch, Manager
Discount and Collateral Department
Charles M. Walworth, Manager
Foreign Exchange Department
John J. Arnold Charles P. Clifford
Manager Assistant Manager
Law Department
Edward E. Brown John Nash Ott
Attorney Assistant Attorney
Transit and General Books Department
Charles R. McKay, Manager
264196
DIRECTORS FIRST NATIONAL BANK AND
NATIONAL SAFE DEPOSIT COMPANY
Benjamin Allen
Samuel W. Allerton
A. C. Bartlett
E. K. Boisot
William L. Brown
Augustus A. Carpenter
D. Mark Cummings
James B. Forgan
James J. Hill
H. H. Hitchcock
Marvin Hughitt
E. T. Jeffery
William J. Louderback
Harold F. McCormick
Edward Morris
Charles H. Morse
Eugene S. Pike
Henry H. Porter, Jr.
Norman B. Ream
John A. Spoor
Bernard E. Sunny
Wm. J. Watson
Frank O. Wetmore
Clarence M. Woolley
Also Directors and Members of the Advisory
Committee of the
FIRST TRUST AND SAVINGS BANK
OFFICERS OF THE
FIRST TRUST AND SAVINGS BANK
James B. F organ, President
Emile K. Boisot, Vice-President
Lotas Boisot, Trust Officer
Burt C. Hardenbrook, Cashier
Robert D. Forgan, Treasurer
David V. Webster, Secretary
Frank M. Gordon, Manager Bond Department
Roy C. Osgood, Assistant Trust Officer
C. G. Fleager, Assistant Treasurer
A. W. Converse, Assistant Secretary
Robert L. Davis, Manager Real Estate Department
Edward E. Brown, Attorney
John Nash Ott. Assistant Attorney
PREFACE
THE First National Bank of Chicago opened
its doors for business on the first day of
July, 1863; its character has never changed.
Upon the completion of a half -century's serv-
ice — successful to itself and of value to the
community — marked by growth coincident with
that of Chicago, this history is presented. It is
essentially a record of the past and but suggests
the facilities and organization which has been
built up year by year, until in equipment, in
personnel of management, in the high standards
which mark its daily routine, the bank stands as
a model product of the National Bank Act. Not
only is it a monument to those who laid the
foundations and whose wisdom and prudence have
made the name a synonym for strength and
safety, but to those also who day by day maintain
its reputation and its traditions, striving that the
honored name may be handed down without
stain to their successors.
Under the authority of the board of directors
a history of the institution, prepared by Henry
C. Morris, was published in 1902, from which,
with but little alterations, has been taken the
record up to the renewal of the bank's second
charter. The present reviewer acknowledges the
obligation to Mr. Morris, and to the officers of
the bank, who by criticism and advice have aided
in the preparation of the volume.
Guy Wickes Cooke.
Chicago, 1913.
ILLUSTRATIONS
\
Opposite
Page
I. The First National Bank Building - Frontispiece
II. Edmund Aiken ----------- 10
The First President
III. The Bank's First Building --------18
Southwest Corner Clark and Lake Streets
TV. Samuel M. Nickerson -26
The Second President
V. The Bank's Second Building - - - - - ... 34
Southwest Corner State and Washington Streets
VI. Ruins of the Second Building - - 42
After the Fire of 1871
VII. The Bank's Third Building --------50
Northwest Corner Dearborn and Monroe Streets
VIII. Lyman J. Gage 58
The Third President
IX. James B. Forgan -----66
The President
X. Official Staff of 1910 --- 74
' ' ' '..••■*>'■.
The First National Bank
of Chicago
FINANCIAL conditions existing in Chicago at the out-
break of the Civil War were not in the least flattering.
Although in November, i860, the situation had been
most auspicious, yet within two months after that
date, by reason of the decline in southern securities, the notes
of Illinois banking corporations were at a serious discount, and
local banks unanimously refused to accept those which were
considered the most doubtful in value.
The total volume of the notes of all the banks having
offices in Chicago at the close of 1861 was slightly less than
$150,000, a sum utterly insufficient to satisfy the demands of
the community; hence bills issued outside of the state, and
not redeemable within its boundaries, were necessarily put in
circulation. Indeed, the city was soon notorious as the center
from which great quantities of this paper were scattered broad-
cast. Thus the people suffered, trade was uncertain, and
business was prosecuted for the next eighteen months under
difficulties.
Meanwhile the discussion of the proposed National Currency
Act was progressing at Washington, and the divergence of
opinion, aroused throughout the country by its consideration,
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
was showing that many well-informed financiers were looking
forward to an improvement in monetary affairs, should such a
measure ever become law. Some of these men resided in
Chicago, and during the winter of 1862-63 they frequently met
and talked over the prospects of the projected legislation.
Prominent among them were Edmund Aiken, then about fifty
years of age, and sole member of the private banking firm of
Aiken & Norton; Samuel M. Nickerson, a young man of
thirty-two, who had only recently arrived here, and was
temporarily engaged in the distilling business; Byron Rice, a
capitalist; Samuel W.AUerton, a packer; Benjamin P. Hutch-
inson, a member of the Board of Trade, and several others.
The place of these informal gatherings was usually at the office
of Aiken & Norton, in Room I of the old Board of Trade
Building, on the northeast corner of La Salle and Water streets.
Chicago had at this time a population approximating 150,000
and it was evident to those endowed with reasonable foresight
that this city was destined, as the years advanced, to attain a
higher and higher degree of prosperity. It was likewise ap-
parent that the banking facilities then existing, even in those
days of civil strife, were inadequate ; moreover, the institution
which should first prove itself worthy of public confidence
would, when the war closed, have an enormous advantage over
all competitors. The community had outgrown its infancy;
conditions had been modified ; there was not merely room for,
but an urgent need of, a well-organized bank, with ample
capital and under a management both honest and skilled in the
theory and practice of banking.
The movement was opportune, and these men were thor-
oughly fitted to grasp its possibilities. With the passage of
[8]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
the National Currency Act, and its approval by the President,
the little group of Chicagoans felt that the hour for action had
come. Not a single day was needlessly lost in perfecting their
plans.
The first step of which official record exists is the meeting
of the interested parties, presumably in the office of Aiken &
Norton, on May I, 1863. Upon that occasion formal articles
of association, as prescribed by law, were adopted. The chief
provisions were: that the name of the corporation should be
" The First National Bank of Chicago ;" that the capital should
be $100,000, and might be augmented to a sum not in excess of
$1,000,000; a two-thirds vote of the board of directors being
always requisite for such a purpose; the additional stock to be
distributed pro rata among such of the stockholders as might
wish to take their respective shares. Thirty per cent of the
original subscriptions was to be taken and paid for at once,
and the remainder at such times as should thereafter be de-
termined. The directors were fixed at nine, their qualifications
to be the ownership of stock equivalent in value to five per
cent on the first $100,000, and one per cent upon any increase
of capital over such amount. The term for which the associa-
tion was formed was limited to expire on April 30, 1882,
being nineteen years from the date of this instrument. The
signers and the number of shares held by each of them were,
respectively:
M
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Shares Shares
Edmund Aiken 175 Samuel M. Nickerson 100
Byron Rice 50 Samuel W. Allerton .... 100
Benjamin P. Hutchinson. . 175 John B. Sherman 100
Tracy J. Bronson 100 James C. Fargo 50
George N. Kennedy 50 Samuel G. D. Howard .... 100
All, with one exception, were residents of Chicago ; George
N. Kennedy lived at Syracuse, New York.
Pursuant to the articles of association, the stockholders
assembled on May 7, 1863, at the office of Aiken & Norton,
and thereupon elected as directors, to serve until the second
Tuesday in January, 1864, the following named gentlemen:
Samuel W. Allerton, Tracy J. Bronson, Samuel M. Nickerson,
Byron Rice, Benjamin P. Hutchinson, Edmund Aiken, Samuel
G. D. Howard, James C. Fargo, and John B. Sherman. The
board thus constituted, having at once met, chose Edmund
Aiken president, and James C. Fargo vice-president. Sub-
sequently, on May 22d, Messrs. Hutchinson, Howard, and
Nickerson were appointed a committee to assist the president
in completing the organization and making other preliminary
arrangements. On May 27th, $30,000 of the capital having
been paid in, that fact was communicated to Hon. Hugh
McCulloch, Comptroller of the Currency. The original in-
tention had been to open the doors of the establishment on
June 1st, but some unexpected delays occurred. The Comp-
troller likewise did not finally act upon any of the applications
before him until June 22d. On that date he empowered
several banks to begin business, signing almost simultaneously
the necessary authority. The First National Bank of Chicago
was the eighth institution to receive his approval. On June
26th the board of directors voted that the activities of the
[10]
1 > 1
' ' * J >>' ''>',' > 1
EDMUND AIKEN
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
bank be inaugurated on July I, 1863, in the rooms formerly
occupied by Aiken & Norton, which had been secured for this
purpose. At the same time a resolution to increase the capital
to $250,000 was passed. Prior to this date, James C. Fargo
had sold his stock, and was thus disqualified from holding
office. To succeed him as vice-president, Samuel M. Nicker-
son was, upon motion of B. P. Hutchinson, chosen on June 29,
1863; then entering upon that period of indefatigable service
in behalf of the bank which was to extend over more than a
third of a century. At the same meeting Edward E. Braisted
was appointed cashier.
The Chicago Daily Tribune of June 30, 1863, conta*ined the
following announcement:
"The First National Bank of Chicago goes into operation
tomorrow, July 1st, E. Aiken, Esq., President, and E. E.
Braisted, late of the Loan & Trust Co., Cashier. The stock-
holders are among the most active and substantial business
men, representing our merchants, lumber, produce, and stock
dealers, with a number of our leading capitalists. The bank
opens with a cash capital of a quarter million of dollars, and a
further increase will be added as the wants of the business
public shall require. The president has long been known to
the business community as one of our most active and prudent
bankers, and the stockholders and the public are fortunate in
the selection of a gentleman for so important a position, who
so thoroughly understands the business of the city. The bank
will open at the former office of the president, No. 22 La Salle
street, immediately north of Coolbaugh & Co.'s Bank, north-
west corner of Lake."
[11]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
From the day of its inauguration the institution was ac-
corded a favorable reception by the people, and during the
first three months of its existence, gradually gained strength.
The earliest published statement of its condition appeared
on October i, 1863, as of the close of business September 30th,
and showed as follows:
ASSETS
Loans and discounts $149,650.00
United States bonds (par value) 91,000.00
Cash Resources:
Due from banks (Eastern exchange) $109,773.73
Checks for clearing house 68,597.12
Cash on hand 60,828.13
239,198.98
$4791848.98
LIABILITIES
Capital stock $205,000.00
Undivided profits 1,759.49
Deposits 273,089.49
$479,848.98
From this modest beginning one of the largest financial
institutions on the western hemisphere has developed.
The next incident of importance was the election of E. G.
Hall, on November II, 1863, as a director to succeed James C.
Fargo, who had resigned. Already the rooms occupied by the
bank were becoming too small, and unfitted for its growing
business; the officers were looking for new quarters. At the
meeting of the board, December 8th, the action of the presi-
dent in leasing a portion of the main floor in the Exchange
Block, at the southwest corner of Clark and Lake streets, for
five years, at an annual rental of $4,000, was approved. This
[12]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
address remained unchanged until the end of 1867. On the
same day the directors also passed a resolution ordering from
the Comptroller of the Currency the sum of $200,000 in cir-
culating notes.
The first regular annual election of directors was held on
January 12, 1864. It may not be without interest to mention
the names of the stockholders and the number of shares re-
spectively held by them at that time. The secretary of the
meeting reported the vote cast by those present or represented
by proxy as follows:
Shares Shares
E.Aiken 212 M. Talcott 100
Byron Rice 70 Samuel D. G. Howard .... 70
Henry M. Wilmarth 30 W. N. Brainard 50
Benjamin P. Hutchinson. . 300 George C. Walker 50
E. G. Hall 70 Tracy J. Bronson 150
T. H. Seymour 50 Samuel W. AUerton 150
S. B. Roath 30 Henry M. Shepard 50
John M. Williams 50 Samuel M. Nickerson 100
A. Hurd 50 Horace M. Singer 100
Whereupon it was announced that Messrs. Edmund Aiken,
Benjamin P. Hutchinson, Samuel W. AUerton, Samuel M.
Nickerson, Byron Rice, Samuel G. D. Howard, Tracy J. Bron-
son, John B. Sherman, and E. G. Hall had been duly elected
for the ensuing year. The board immediately met and chose
the former officers to succeed themselves.
As suggestive of the conservative views which then pre-
vailed among the managers, the resolution of the directors of
January 23, 1864, reciting that "no loan shall be made with or
without collateral to any individual or firm to exceed $50,000
[13]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
without the approval of the board," should be noted. During
the spring of the same year the stock was gradually augmented
to $600,000. The bank was now on a healthy, sound, and pros-
perous basis. The men who had brought it into existence were
naturally desirous of realizing some direct return. On May 2,
1864, the first dividend was declared. The net earnings for
the period prior to the preceding day, free of tax, were found
to be equal to sixteen per cent of the capital, while the holders
of the first three thousand shares issued also received pro rata
the five per cent premium which had accrued on the United
States bonds. Such a result of one year's work may well be
envied by financiers of the present generation. Soon after-
ward it was determined to increase the volume of the circulat-
ing notes, as soon as practicable, to $400,000.
On October I, 1864, the principal items included in the
official statement were: Loans and discounts, $809,730.94;
United States bonds, $441,500; cash resources, $681,819.65;
capital stock paid in, $600,000; undivided profits, $66,752.88;
circulating notes, $320,000; deposits, $946,579.95. On No-
vember 15, 1864, a dividend of ten per cent was distributed.
During this autumn the capital was fixed at $750,000 and the
circulating notes at $600,000 in value. Augustus W. Wheeler
was appointed assistant cashier on November 7th.
The next year opened with memorable action by the board
of directors, when, on January 2, 1865, it voted to increase
the capital stock to $1,000,000, the highest limit provided by
the articles of association. Under date of March 9th the
cashier certified to the Comptroller of the Currency that the
full amount had been paid ; $100,000 of this additional sum was
relinquished for allotment to new stockholders.
[14]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
On February 10, 1865, A. W. Wheeler severed his connection
with the management, having previously resigned as assistant
cashier. The United States Treasurer certified, February 24,
1865, that the bank had on deposit bonds to the total of $632,-
000, of which $572,000 were as security for circulation, and
$60,000 to cover public moneys in its possession. Another
important event was the approval of the charter and constitu-
tion of the Chicago Clearing House Association. By this act
the institution became a member of that organization.
A further semi-annual dividend of ten per cent was declared
for May 1st, it being the last paid at that date. To conform
with the more usually prevailing practice a resolution was
adopted in November, 1865, that dividends should thereafter
be payable on the first days of January and July respectively.
During 1865 there had not been any change in the board of
directors. At the beginning of 1 866 all the old members, except
S. G. D. Howard, were re-elected; in his stead Franklin D.
Gray was named. At this same time the bank experienced
another modification in its personnel through the voluntary
retirement of the cashier, E. E. Braisted. This gentleman had
rendered great service in helping to place it upon a safe founda-
tion. His successor does not appear to have been at once
selected. Charles J. Schmitt was, however, appointed assistant
cashier on January 9th, and seems to have performed the
duties of the higher post during several ensuing months, until,
on December 3d, Cornelius R. Field was chosen to fill it.
At the opening of the next year (1867), a serious blow was
sustained in the death of President Aiken, who died suddenly
of heart disease on January 12th, being then in the fifty-fifth
[15]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
year of his age. Under his management the institution had,
within a brief period, grown to be one of the leading financial
institutions of the West ; its original projector, he had brought
it to its present prosperous condition. Hence, fear was
naturally expressed that his sagacity and counsel might be
missed. Fortunately, however, in the emergency, the person
well equipped and thoroughly fitted to assume these arduous
labors was at hand. On January 23, 1867, Samuel M. Nicker-
son was promoted to the presidential chair, while Franklin D.
Gray was elected vice-president. For the next thirty years and
more these two men were associated in the direction of the bank.
For them both its interests became their chief care. The one
as the executive head, the other as his adviser, counselor, and
friend, strove long and strenuously to advance the welfare of
the corporation which they so ardently cherished. At the
annual meeting held this same month, in the place of Messrs.
Bronson and Sherman, George C. Walker and Mancel Talcott
were named for the board of directors. Subsequently, on
March 4th, Henry B. Lewis was designated to succeed Mr.
Aiken for the remainder of the unexpired term. At a slightly
later date (June 24, 1867) George Webster was also chosen
vice Benjamin P. Hutchinson, resigned.
The most important transaction of this era was the pur-
chase of the lot on the southwest corner of State and Washing-
ton streets. Vice-president Gray, who was charged with the
negotiations, secured the transfer of this piece of ground —
measuring fifty-five feet on State street by eighty-four feet on
Washington street — during the last week in March, 1867, for
the sum of $83,500, being equivalent to $1,500 per foot on the
State street frontage. The conditions of payment were one-
[16]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
fourth cash and balance in three equal installments, payable
one, two, and three years after date, bearing interest at the
rate of seven per cent. In September, a building committee,
consisting of Messrs. Nickerson, Walker, Gray, and Talcott,
was appointed. A fire-proof edifice was projected, which was
furnished and occupied in the spring of 1868. As described
in Industrial Chicago:
"The old First National Bank building, on the southwest
corner of State and Washington streets, was completed in 1872
at a cost of $295,000, $75,000 of which was spent on restoration
after the fire. It was considered a fire-proof house — iron,
stone, and brick being the exclusive material, but it did not
prove itself so in the presence of the great fire of 1871, for the
inner vaults were the only portions of the building untouched
by fire. Part of the walls fell in and the iron work was twisted
or melted. It was a Florentine building, with balustraded
portico in cut-off and pediment from the cornice. Prior to the
introduction of modern houses the old First National Bank
was considered a rare architectural work, and was spoken of
in connection with the Palmer, Tremont, Field, and other
leading houses."
At the close of business on December 31, 1867, the principal
items, as shown by the statement subsequently published,
were: Loans and discounts, $1,978,532.39; deposits, $2,125,-
069.83; capital, $1,000,000; surplus, $100,000; profit and
loss, $120,477.83.
The annual election of 1868 resulted in the choice of the
same directorate and officers. On March 2d, Byron Rice
resigned from the board, and two months later Henry H.
[17]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Porter was elected to succeed him. About this date Messrs.
Gray and Webster, together with the president, were, pursuant
to the provisions of the by-laws, as then lately amended, ap-
pointed to serve as a "discount committee."
During the summer of 1868 a momentous change in the
personnel of the active managers occurred. On July 13, the
resignation of Cornelius R. Field, as cashier, was accepted, to
take effect on the first of August following. Before the last
mentioned day, Lyman J. Gage, then assistant cashier of the
Merchants' Loan and Trust Company, had been chosen his
successor. Thenceforth the names of Mr. Gage and the
First National Bank of Chicago were for many years synony-
mous.
On September 7, 1868, the by-laws were again revised so as
to provide for a finance committee, in the place of the discount
committee, to be composed of the president, cashier, and one
other director, to the care of which the details of financial
policy were intrusted, besides the authority to discount bills,
notes, and other evidences of debt, and to buy and sell bills of
exchange. Mr. Walker was thereupon appointed as the third
member.
At this time, among all the financial institutions of Chicago,
the First National Bank was, as it appears from current statis-
tics, in the lead in capital and surplus ; in loans and discounts,
and in deposits, the Union National Bank alone surpassed it.
In 1869 George C. Walker and Henry B. Lewis retired from
the board of directors, their places being filled by Frederick
Crumbaugh and Daniel Thompson. Henry R. Symonds was,
on January 4th, chosen assistant cashier.
[18}
> > >>
' » > , , , .
' ' > • 1 > >
THE BANK'S FIRST BUILDING
Southwest Corner Clark and Lake Streets
r r c r f
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
On October 9, 1869, the formal report to the Comptroller
was as follows:
ASSETS
Loans and discounts $2,381,957.79
United States bonds (par value) 767,050.00
Building, fixtures, and furniture 312,885.05
Cash resources:
Due from banks $312,135.74
Checks for clearing house 232,069.57
Cash on hand 555,872.53 1,100,077.84
$4,561,970.68
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $1,000,000.00
Surplus fund 200,000.00
Other undivided profits 72,712.88
Circulation notes from Comptroller 597,270.00
Deposits 2,691,987.80
$4,561,970.68
At the meeting of January 15, 1870, Edward F. Lawrence
and Lyman J. Gage were elected directors to succeed Messrs.
Hall and Webster. Henry H. Porter was placed on the
finance committee, and Messrs. Nickerson, Porter, and Gage
were appointed to remodel the by-laws of the association.
Owing to the adoption of a policy of greater conservatism, the
loans and discounts, as well as deposits, at this date show a
distinct shrinkage; they were, respectively, $1,862,262.91 and
$1,793,167.56.
On January 10, 1 87 1, the stockholders in annual session
adopted several amendments to the articles of association,
the principal provision being for such increase of the capital
as might be voted by a two-thirds majority of the board of
[19]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
directors from time to time until in the total it should aggre-
gate $3,000,000. The number of directors was also fixed at
not less than five nor more than thirteen. All the retiring
members, with the exception of Daniel Thompson, were re-
elected ; in his stead Benjamin F. Allen was chosen. The same
officers as heretofore were again named. Subsequently, at
a meeting of the board, on February 6th, a new series of by-
laws was voted.
The great fire of October 9, 1871, swept over the bank
structure, although the walls were left standing, and a portion
of the interior was unharmed. For temporary purposes
quarters were found. First in the old Burlington Warehouse,
at the corner of State and Sixteenth streets, then in a building
on Wabash avenue, between Congress and Twelfth, and after-
wards in a frame structure on the north side of Washington
street between State and Dearborn, some one hundred feet
east of the latter thoroughfare, on the site of the old
Crosby Opera House. On January 1, 1872, business was again
transacted in the old edifice, which at that time had been
thoroughly restored. The safes and vaults had withstood the
heat of the flames; not a security, note, or paper of any value
was destroyed, and the books were intact. The special com-
mittee appointed by the directors to ascertain the total loss
sustained, as the effect of this memorable calamity, reported
that it did not exceed $250,000, of which $100,000 represented
the damage to the building.
During 1872 only one change occurred in the directorate,
Nelson Morris being elected to succeed Frederick Crumbaugh.
Charles Hitchcock was also in August of this year appointed
legal counsel, and the City Bank of London was in June
[20]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
designated as foreign correspondent. On December 25th the
sum of $100,000 was transferred to the surplus fund. The
financial condition of the bank at the opening of the next year,
which was to be remarkable as one of depression and panic,
was excellent. The statement made at the close of 1872
showed :
ASSETS
Loans and discounts $2,493,063.06
United States bonds (par value) 675,800.00
Building, furniture, and fixtures 264,361.38
Cash resources:
Due from banks (Eastern exchange). . $549,058.04
Cash on hand 921,152.55 1,470,210.59
$4,903,435.03
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $1,000,000.00
Surplus fund 300,000.00
Other undivided profits 204,959.15
Circulation notes from Comptroller $602,300.00
Less amount on hand 14,315.00 587,985.00
Dividend unpaid 250.00
Deposits 2,810,240.88
$4,903,435-03
On February 28, 1873, the First National Bank of Chicago
had: Loans and discounts, $2,560,897.42; deposits, $3,477,-
880.12. The worst days of depression did not come until
autumn. Through these trials and tribulations the institution
passed unharmed and intact. Not for a moment were its doors
closed, or the slightest hesitation shown in meeting the demands
of its depositors. After the crisis had been successfully
weathered, its prestige was so greatly enhanced that it was
[21]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
at once recognized as the foremost bank in Chicago and the
West. To the fidelity and courage of the cashier, Lyman J.
Gage, the happy issue from these painful ordeals was chiefly
due, as is most fittingly testified in appropriate and eulogistic
language upon the record book of the association. With just
pride he, in his official capacity, made the following report, as
specially required by the Comptroller of the Currency. This
document, memorable in the history of the corporation, de-
serves reproduction here:
Special report of condition at close of business October 13 th and
November 1st, made to the Comptroller of the Currency November
10, 1873:
October 13 th November 1st
Loans (not including demand) $1,772,435.02 $2,007,178.51
Demand loans 723,200.00 769,000.00
United States bonds on hand 58,800.00 55,150.00
Due from reserve agents 306,923.15 265,309.99
Due from other banks and bankers ... 165,141.25 163,350.05
Exchange for clearing house 252,389.73 349,304.22
National bank notes 80,000.00 100,000.00
Fractional currency 7,985.26 6,131.28
Coin 81,147.92 56,286.48
Legal tender 900,000.00 865,000.00
Capital 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00
Circulating notes outstanding 587>575-°° 586,480.00
Deposits of all kinds 3,149,622.14 3,421,273.42
Due to banks and bankers 1,054,402.38 1,198,598.75
Questions. Answers.
Did your bank suspend currency payments? No.
Did your bank partially suspend currency pay-
ments? No.
On what day did the bank suspend? Did not suspend.
[22]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
After this date remarkably few changes occurred in the
membership of the board of directors. In 1874 H. M. Wil-
marth succeeded B. F. Allen. In 1879 Horace M. Singer was
elected in place of Mancel Talcott, deceased. Mr. Talcott
had died in May, 1878; as "one whose long and devoted serv-
ices were always marked by the high qualities of personal
integrity, and intelligent appreciation of the true interests of
the institution," his loss was keenly felt.
A notable event is the action taken on December 30, 1879,
in reference to new quarters. At a meeting of the board of
directors, held on that day, Mr. Porter called attention to the
cramped appearance and the existing inconveniences in the
office arrangements, and it was voted :
"Whereas, the increase of business of this bank impera-
tively demands increase of room and facilities to properly ac-
commodate it, therefore,
"Resolved, that the president and cashier be and they are
hereby appointed a committee to ascertain and report upon the
feasibility of procuring more, whether by the alteration of
present building and purchasing adjoining lot, or by the sale
of present building and the purchase of new lot."
The project of enlarging the structure then occupied by the
institution was soon found impracticable; consideration was
therefore given to the selection of another site. During the
summer of 1880 the decision was gradually reached that the
northwest corner of Dearborn and Monroe streets, where before
the fire the post-office had stood, would be an admirable loca-
tion. This lot was school property. In the original proposi-
[23]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
tion made to the Board of Education it was contemplated to
take a lease for fifty years with an additional option of twenty
years, and to erect a fire-proof building, of which the upper
floor should be rented to the board and to the public library.
It was also necessary to buy out the leasehold interest held
by J. H. Haverly in the old post-office building, then known
as the Haverly Theatre. Arrangements had been completed
in accordance with these plans, when in June, 1881, a change in
policy, due to certain provisions of the National Banking Act,
was adopted. It was determined to organize, as a subsidiary
corporation, the "National Safe Deposit Company," with a
capital of $300,000 divided into three thousand shares of $100
each. The bank in its corporate capacity subscribed for
$299,100 of this stock, the remainder being taken by its di-
rectors as individuals. The new company was substituted as
lessee in the pending transaction. The annual rental for the
lot during the first five years was fixed at six per cent on a
valuation of $345,000, and it was stipulated that the edifice
to be constructed should cost not less than $300,000. This
offer was accepted and the agreement, as executed, began to
run from July 1, 1881. Since then several reappraisements of
the ground have been made. The bank itself in time took from
the National Safe Deposit Company a lease of the main floor
of the block then immediately erected. The new quarters were
occupied on November 27, 1882.
Again to quote from Industrial Chicago :
"The First National Bank building is a six-story and base-
ment structure, Romanesque in style, with basement and first
story in vermiculated stone and the upper stories in pressed
brick; a Roman-Doric portico shows two polished granite
[24]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
columns on either side corresponding with pilasters carrying a
heavy entablature and balustrade. In the central and corner
pavilions the horizontal style of the recessed sections merges
into the vertical. The portico extends to the level of
the second principal floor, and piers in the corner project,
corresponding with it, thus carrying the high basement and
first floor in one story. The second and third stories are also
carried in one by pilasters, and the fourth, fifth, and sixth are
compressed into one story for architectural effect; the two
windows of the sixth story in each corner pavilion and three
in the central pavilion showing the round arch finishing a
section. The cornice is becoming, and the parapets above it,
in the pavilions, render the sky-line perfect. This house oc-
cupies the site of the ' Honest Building* which was restored after
the fire and used up to 1882, when it was torn down. The
bank hall, occupying the first floor, is lighted by a great court.
While the mural decorations and furniture are of the highest
class, they are lost in the business air which pervades this hall,
so that to pick them out one must visit the bank with that sole
object."
On November 7, 1881, resolutions were passed, in accord-
ance with which the capital stock was increased to the sum of
$2,000,000, the additional amount required being rapidly sub-
scribed. Thus the bank, while approaching the original term
of its existence, was daily growing and developing in every
direction. Nor were those charged with the conservation of its
interests indifferent or ungrateful to the men upon whom the
routine labors fell. The corporation early manifested its ap-
preciation of faithful and arduous service. A pleasing custom,
soon observed by the board of directors, was that of voting,
[25]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
upon the recurrence of every new year, substantial gifts to the
officers and employees who were toiling for success and greater
achievement. This practice gradually arose, until at the
close of 1 88 1 perhaps the largest sum ever thus bestowed was
appropriated ; $20,000 was then distributed. Merit and ability
were likewise always rewarded by increase of salary and cor-
responding promotion. Several instances might be cited of
men, who from the ranks, have risen to lucrative and control-
ling positions.
With the advent of 1882 the association was necessarily
obliged to anticipate the early discontinuance of its activities
or at least its technical reorganization. The hope had been
cherished that Congress would pass a measure enabling national
banks to prolong the term of their existence, or renew their
charters upon conditions which might permit them to retain
their corporate identity. But such action was not taken. The
bill for that purpose pending in the spring of 1882 was long and
tediously debated. The first of May, when the privileges of
"The First National Bank of Chicago, Number 8," would
expire, was not many weeks distant. After serious considera-
tion, it was therefore determined to be best that the institution
should go into voluntary liquidation. Its property was
offered for sale ; it was resolved that its doors should be closed
on Saturday, April 29, 1882, and all other requisite formalities
were executed. Its assets, of course, were without delay
transferred to its legal successor, known as "The First National
Bank of Chicago, Number 2670." The books were balanced
and a complete settlement of affairs was made, the stockholders,
in conclusion, receiving $294.12 for every share held.
Such is the record of prosperity enjoyed by this establish-
[26]
' I
SAMUEL M. NICKERSON
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
ment during the period of its first organization, extending from
1863 to 1882; of their success, the men who attained it may-
well be proud. For nearly twenty years they had wisely and
diligently worked in harmony; to another term of equal length
they were eagerly looking forward, for the second corporation,
while then by law newly created, was in the personnel of its
membership still one and the same.
[27]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
THE new organization was completed on April 25, 1882,
when the subscribers to the stock met, adopted a
series of by-laws, and elected a board of directors.
The incorporators, together with the number of
shares respectively held by them, were:
Shares
Samuel M. Nickerson .... 7100
Lyman J. Gage 2334
George N. Culver 100
Matilda P. Nickerson .... 200
Thos. P. Smith 310
George W. Higgins 350
Henry E. Sawyer 200
Moses W. Gray 120
Roland C. Nickerson 20
Henry H. Porter 300
Edward F. Lawrence 220
Nathaniel K. Fairbank. . . 300
Mary H. Talcott 600
Horace M. Singer 600
William W. Kimball 28
Samuel W. Allerton 1864
Jane A. Brooks 100
Shares
Franklin D. Gray 450
Edward C. Sawyer 60
Charles H. Curtis 100
Isaac Eldridge 40
Magdelina P, Sample .... 50
George T. Smith 300
Richard J. Street 12
Harry C. Sawyer 10
Nelson Morris 1000
Henry R. Symonds 2250
Henry M. Wilmarth .... 400
Theodore A. Shaw 100
Stephen B. Roath 100
Sarah Morris 172
John M. Williams 50
William J. Wilson 100
George P. Sanford 60
The total capital was thus $2,000,000, divided into
twenty thousand shares of $100 each. The articles of associa-
tion provided that the charter should run for twenty years, or
until April 25, 1902; that the capital might be augmented,
upon certain conditions, to a sum not to exceed $10,000,000,
and that the number of directors should be not less than five nor
[28]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
more than fifteen. The first board chosen consisted of Samuel
M. Nickerson, Edward F. Lawrence, Nelson Morris, Franklin
D. Gray, Henry H. Porter, Lyman J. Gage, Samuel W. Aller-
ton, Henry M. Wilmarth, Horace M. Singer, and Henry R.
Symonds, all of whom, but the last named and additional
member, had served under the old regime. When the directors
assembled they elected Samuel M. Nickerson president, and
Franklin D. Gray vice-president. Lyman J. Gage was ap-
pointed cashier, and Henry R. Symonds assistant cashier.
From this list of names it is at once apparent that the present
corporation was in every respect not only the continuation but
the counterpart of its predecessor. Theoretically and legally
they were different entities, but practically they were one and
the same institution. On May I, 1882, John J. Knox the
Comptroller of the Currency, authorized the commencement of
business under charter known as Number 2670, and that day
the bank reopened its doors, in the same well-known quarters,
the entire assets having been transferred by purchase from the
liquidated to the new organization.
Aside from the radical change which had thus occurred, this
year was also in several respects notable. Within one week
after the events just related, the decision was taken, on May 6,
1882, to increase the capital stock to $3,000,000, a resolution
which was speedily effected. The sale of the old building on
the southwest corner of State and Washington streets, for the
sum of $230,000, was concluded on June 5th. On June 26th
the policy of declaring quarterly dividends was adopted, the
first of two per cent being ordered payable at the end of that
month; on the same day Henry M. Kingman was appointed
assistant cashier. One of the most important incidents in the
[29]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
history of the association happened September 4, 1882. Upon
this occasion Franklin D. Gray resigned as vice-president, a
position which he had honorably and successfully held since
1867. Lyman J. Gage, formerly cashier, was promoted to be
his successor. However arduous the duties of Mr. Gage had
heretofore proven, they were thenceforth to be multiplied many
fold; for the principal executive management was now confided
to his care. Henry R. Symonds was chosen cashier, Henry M.
Kingman assistant cashier, and Richard J. Street second
assistant cashier.
At the meeting of December 26th the surplus of $100,000
was doubled, and an appropriation of $20,000 made for New
Year's gifts to worthy and meritorious employees.
At the annual session of the stockholders on January 9,
1883, the board of directors was increased by one additional
member, and Augustus A. Carpenter was chosen to fill the
place. In the spring the banking rooms were first lighted with
electricity. The generally excellent facilities then enjoyed for
doing business are evidenced by the national bank examiner,
who writes, "The office arrangements are far superior to those
of any other institution in the country." The rule of requiring
all employees to give bond was likewise now adopted. An ad-
ditional sum of $100,000 was, in December, carried to the
surplus fund. Otherwise the year was uneventful in the
domestic affairs of the corporation. Attention should never-
theless be directed to the fact that the bank, as appears from a
comparison of the reports submitted to the Comptroller of the
Currency, had then attained fourth rank among all the finan-
cial establishments of the United States.
[30]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
During 1884 not anything of importance, save the further
increase of the surplus by $100,000, is to be noted. The state-
ment of condition made in December, 1884, showed:
ASSETS
Loans and discounts $10,068,871.00
United States bonds (par value) 80,600.00
Other bonds and stocks (market value) 544,850.00
Bank building 500,000.00
Cash resources:
Checks for clearing house and cash on hand 8,283,339.00
$19,477,660.00
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $ 3,000,000.00
Surplus fund 400,000.00
Other undivided profits 350,607.00
Deposits 15,727,053.00
$19,477,660.00
The election of directors for 1885 resulted in the return of
the former members of the board ; but the circle was soon to be
broken, for on February 27th, Henry M. Wilmarth was called
to his last rest. For eleven years he had faithfully conserved
the welfare of the institution; his associates in its management
united in testifying to "the high integrity and clear apprecia-
tion of principle which marked his every act and word in this
relationship." In the following autumn Eugene S. Pike was
chosen to fill the vacancy.
At this time the official records first mention the arrange-
ment of the bank for serving its employees their daily lunch in
the building. In the report of the national examiner, dated
September, 1885, a paragraph appears, wherein it is stated that
[31]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
a kitchen, a dining-room, cooks and stewards being provided,
"the entire force from president to janitor take their midday
meal on the premises." This scheme is still in force. Before
the close of the year an additional $100,000 was carried to the
surplus fund, and a contribution of $500 voted to the memorial
window to be placed in the Second Universalist Church of
Chicago in memory of the late Mancel Talcott, who for a
decade was a member of the board of directors.
During 1886 the bank was silently but steadily growing.
On February 13, of that year, the Clerks' Savings Association
was formed for the benefit of employees, upon whose savings,
under certain restrictions interest at the rate of five per cent
per annum was allowed. The Association is still existant. On
March 31st the bank joined with its associate institutions in
recommending to the Comptroller that Chicago be designated,
pursuant to the act of Congress of March 3, 1887, as a central
reserve city; such action was taken in due course. Slightly
later $250,000 was likewise added to the surplus, a similar
amount being once more appropriated for the same purpose in
June, 1888.
In January, 1888, Horace M. Singer retired, after nine
years' membership on the board of directors, and Orville Peck-
ham, long employed as special counsel, was chosen to succeed
him. Mr. Peckham served until 1890, and again from 1891
to 1892. During 1889 c asn prizes, aggregating in the total
$600 annually, were also inaugurated, to be awarded to such
clerks as should, during any one year, prove themselves the
most efficient, exact in their duties, and the most apt in dis-
covering errors. In order to determine the recipients, a com-
plete system of daily marking was instituted.
[32]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Attention may here also be especially directed to the bond
and foreign departments, the business of which was already
at this date being kept entirely separate and distinct from the
other divisions of the bank.
On December n, 1889, the statement of condition showed:
ASSETS
Loans and discounts $15,803,617.00
United States bonds (par value) 57,200.00
Other bonds and stocks (market value) 881,550.00
Real estate, furniture, and fixtures 500,000.00
Cash resources:
Checks for clearing house and cash on hand 12,357,180.00
$29,599,547-00
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $ 3,000,000.00
Surplus fund 1,500,000.00
Other undivided profits 797,107.00
Deposits 24,302,440.00
$29,599,547-00
The Very last day of the year $250,000 was again voted to
the surplus fund.
At the annual meeting of the stockholders on January 14,
1890, Norman B. Ream was elected a director in the place of
Mr. Peckham; otherwise the board remained unchanged. One
sign of rising prosperity during the year was the increase in
the rate of the quarterly dividends from two and one-half per
cent to three per cent. For some time previously they had
been declared at the former figure.
When the board of directors met, on January 23, 1891, to
[33]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
organize, the following letter from President Nickerson was
presented and read:
"Before proceeding to the election of officers for the ensu-
ing year, I wish to state that should you decide to elect me
president, it must be with the understanding and notice that I
shall resign the office whenever Mr. L. J. Gage shall be relieved
from his duties as president of the World's Fair, and can devote
all his time to the affairs of this bank; and when that time
arrives I shall take pleasure in co-operating with you in electing
him to take my place, if you then decide to do so. It would be
my desire to continue as a director of this bank, and co-operate
with you in working for its interests and success. It is not my
intention to engage in any other business. I have arrived
at a time of life when I feel it to be my duty to delegate to
younger heads and hands the responsibilities that are involved
in the position I have held in this bank for the past twenty-four
years as president, and four years previously as vice-president,
which covers the entire time since its organization in 1863. The
success which has attended this bank is known to you all. For
this I have to thank the directors and other officers, who, by
their advice and labor, have made this success possible. Thank-
ing you for your many evidences of confidence and goodwill,
and hoping that the future success of the bank may, under your
direction, be equal to or better than the past, I await your de-
cision as indicated above."
Mr. Nickerson was then re-elected to the presidency. On
June 30, 1 89 1, he resigned; whereupon the following resolution
was unanimously adopted:
M Resolved, that the thanks of the stockholders of this bank
[34]
THE BANK'S SECOND BUILDING
Southwest Corner State and Washington Streets
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
are justly due to Mr. Samuel M. Nickerson for the efficient and
faithful manner in which, for so many years, he has discharged
the duties of president of this institution.
"In accepting his resignation this day tendered, this board
desires to place on record its high appreciation of his adminstra-
tion. We congratulate ourselves, however, that in his retire-
ment from the office of president, the bank will still retain
in him as a director the wise counsel which his long experience
has so well qualified him to give."
The board forthwith proceeded to elect Lyman J. Gage
president. The other officers then chosen were: first vice-
president, Henry R. Symonds; second vice-president, Henry
M. Kingman; cashier, Richard J. Street; assistant cashier,
Holmes Hoge; George D. Boulton was appointed manager of
the foreign exchange and bond department. The resignation
of Henry H. Porter, who had been a director for thirteen years,
was likewise accepted, and Orville Peckham, as heretofore
noted, designated temporarily to succeed him.
Before the close of the year another serious loss was suffered
in the death of the second vice-president, Henry M. Kingman,
who for a long period and in several capacities had been in the
employ of the bank. He died on December 16, 1891. At the
meeting of the board, on the 29th of that month, appropriate
resolutions were unanimously adopted. They read in part:
<<
Resolved, that this board deeply feels that in him (Henry
M. Kingman) the bank has lost a long tried servant, in whom
the highest integrity was united with a clear and wide com-
prehension of his work and responsibility as a banker and bank
officer, and admirable industry and address in the performance
[35]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
of that work. As citizens in the same community in which he
lived, we lament his death as a loss which must be heavily felt
in the wide sphere of usefulness beyond that special field which
he shared with us; and individually we mourn him and re-
member him with affection as a true and helpful friend."
At the opening of 1892 a new force entered the councils of
the institution. James B. Forgan, formerly cashier of the
Northwestern National Bank of Minneapolis, Minnesota, then
became a director, and likewise second vice-president. He was
not, however, destined long to remain in this latter position,
for the way was soon free for his promotion. The hand of
time was being heavily laid upon those who had faithfully
and arduously served the interests of the corporation. On
March 26, 1892, the bank was called to mourn Henry R.
Symonds, its first vice-president, who had been connected with
it for nearly a quarter of a century. The directors, at the sug-
gestion of Mr. Allerton, formally testified to their grief in these
words :
"His clear comprehension of the great trust imposed upon
him; his earnest application to duty; his scrupulous regard
for the interests he represented; his prudence, fortitude, and
courage, made his official life most effective and valuable."
In due course James B. Forgan was chosen first vice-presi-
dent and Roland C. Nickerson was selected to succeed Mr.
Symonds on the board.
On October 25, 1892, the sum of $300,000 was subscribed
to the bonds of the Columbian Exposition, this amount being
the proportionate share of the institution upon the basis of a
[36]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
total of $2,300,000 to be contributed by all the banks of the
city, reckoned at the rate of five per cent on their capital and
surplus. At the close of the year $1,000,000 more was trans-
ferred to the last-mentioned fund.
During 1893 Frank E. Brown was elected second assistant
cashier. Owing to the large accumulation of old books, papers,
and records, a special storehouse for them was erected about
this time.
The statement of condition on December 19, 1894, showed:
ASSETS
Loans and discounts $17,884,431.00
United States bonds (par value) 778,636.00
Other bonds and stocks (market value) 1,605,378.00
Real estate, furniture, and fixtures 675,000.00
Cash resources:
Checks for clearing house and cash on hand 14,725,241.00
$35,668,686.00
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $ 3,000,000.00
Surplus fund 3,000,000.00
Other undivided profits 316,135.00
Deposits 29,352,551.00
$35,668,686.00
Throughout 1895 the continued depression in all lines of
business was severely felt. For a number of years the institu-
tion had phenomenally prospered. Hence it was without any
grave misgivings that the directors faced the existing financial
crisis. Nevertheless they did not deceive themselves with any
false views or rosy-hued dreams. They met conditions as
they found them, and having decided to rid the books of all
[37]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
doubtful and worthless assets, they resolutely determined to
take the stockholders into their full confidence. To this end,
after due deliberation, it was, on August 2, 1895, voted:
"Resolved, that the officers of this bank be, and they are
hereby directed to transfer one million of dollars from the
credit of surplus account to the credit of profit and loss account,
and then to charge into the latter account such items of real
estate as have been taken by the bank in settlement of claims ;
also such items of impaired notes and bills as may in their
opinion be bad, or such proportion thereof as they may deem
necessary to bring the same to the value of a fair cash realiza-
tion, together with any items of stocks or bonds of doubtful
value; and they are hereby directed to make a full report of
all such items as charged at the next regular meeting of this
board.
"Resolved, that the address to stockholders indicative of
this action, here submitted by the president, be adopted and
spread upon the records, and a copy thereof be sent to the
stockholders, to wit:
Chicago, III., July 30, 1895.
We submit herewith, for information of shareholders, the follow-
ing statement of facts:
This bank (present organization) began business May 1, 1882,
practically thirteen years ago. Since that date it has paid:
To shareholders in the way of dividends $4,245,000
In city, county, and state taxes for its shareholders 792,000
It has to the credit of surplus account 3,000,000
And in undivided profits 2 15,000
Total net earnings $8,252,000
[38]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Average earnings per year, say $634,000
Average annual percentage of profits on its capital of
$3,000,000 21.13%
Average dividends paid to shareholders 10.88%
Average dividends for last six years 12.00%
"It has now been determined by the directors to transfer
$1,000,000 from surplus account to the credit of profit and loss,
and then charge into the latter account items of impaired bills,
stocks of uncertain value, together with sundry items of real
estate falling into the bank's hands through settlement of
claims, etc., so that such items will no longer be reckoned as
live assets of the bank, but as realized upon, will again appear
to the credit of profit and loss in the amount of their actual
realization. With the million dollars put aside out of the ac-
cumulated profits and thus applied, the result of the bank's
business as to profits would appear as follows :
Profits paid in dividends $4,245,000
Profits paid in taxes 792,000
To credit of surplus account 2,000,000
To credit of profit and loss 215,000
$7,252,000
Average net profit per annum 557,846
Average per cent of earnings on capital of $3,000,000 18.59%
"The officers and directors are moved to this action by a
desire to keep the assets clear of doubtful values. With the
usual average of surplus earnings in excess of dividends made,
the directors believe that such items of doubtful value might
be taken care of, as actual loss is defined, but they think it
better to adopt the bolder, broader policy herein indicated.
The growing burden of taxation is severe enough if levied only
[39]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
against absolute value. The reduction of surplus should save
one-sixth of the local taxes, the full amount of which last year
was $90,250.
"We have been passing through a period of shrinking values
and commercial depression, unparalleled in twenty years.
Whether this period is fully past cannot yet be determined with
certainty. Until so determined it will be our policy to restrict
operations and to carry large cash reserves against all con-
tingencies. Net profits may be somewhat less than could be
desired, but we see no reason why our established rate of
dividend, three per cent, quarterly, cannot be continued, with a
growing balance to the credit of profit and loss account at each
quarterly period."
This action placed the institution on a thoroughly sound
basis. There was no undue inflation. Every figure was
warranted by the facts, and the road was again clear for
further unimpeded advancement. Toward the close of this
same year (1895) an arrangement was perfected with the
other banks in the clearing house approving the use of clear-
ing-house certificates, in case of need, but none were issued.
Upon the election of Mr. McKinley in 1896, it was at once
suggested that Mr. Gage should enter the new cabinet as the
recipient of the treasury portfolio. In due time the offer was
made and accepted. The assumption of this post naturally
necessitated the severance of his relations with the bank. At
a meeting of the board of directors, held on February II, 1897,
Mr. Gage tendered his resignation and it was thereupon unan-
imously voted:
a
Whereas, Lyman J. Gage, president of this bank and a
[40]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
member of this board, has tendered his resignation of both
positions in order that he may enter the Cabinet of President
McKinley :
"Therefore resolved, that, deferring to his wish, which we
are aware signifies no selfish preference, but springs from a high
sense of public duty, we hereby accept these resignations, to
take effect at the close of business February 15th next, the time
mentioned by him. In thus yielding to the request of Mr.
Gage to sever a connection that has existed for thirty years,
and submitting to the deprivation of his counsel and official
direction in the management of the bank, we desire to bear
testimony to the universal respect and affection felt for him
by all his associates, as well as to express our appreciation of
the tact, ability, and probity which he has so faithfully used
to develop the strength of this institution, and which with his
many other rare qualities signalize him as a citizen.
"As he leaves us to become Secretary of the Treasury, a
position for which his peculiar fitness has been so generally
recognized by the whole country, we are filled with the hope
that his efforts in the broad field of national affairs will be
marked by the same success that has distinguished his career
as a banker.
"Resolved, that this resolution be spread upon the records
of the bank, and that a copy be given to Mr. Gage."
With the retirement of Mr. Gage from all connection with
the bank, it was expected that James B. Forgan would succeed
him as the head of the institution, but owing to the condition
of this gentleman's health at that time, and his enforced ab-
sence for this reason in Europe, the immediate fruition of these
[41]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
plans was deemed impracticable. A temporary arrangement
was therefore reached in the resumption of the presidency by
Samuel M. Nickerson and the continuance of James B. Forgan
as vice-president, with the understanding that the latter would
be elected to the presidency as soon as his health should have
sufficiently improved. George D. Boulton, who had for many
years been serving in various capacities, was chosen to succeed
Mr. Gage on the board of directors, and was likewise elected
second vice-president.
In December, 1898, the bank suffered loss in the death of
Edward F. Lawrence, who, since 1870, had sat almost con-
tinuously on the board of directors, and had, during that
entire period, rendered distinguished and valuable services.
The following resolution attests the love and esteem in which
he was held.
n-
'Resolved, that we now express our deep and abid-
ing sense of the loss which has befallen this institution
which he loved and served, and ourselves as his colleagues and
friends. His service as a director was made of uncommon value
by the excellence of his business judgment, and the large
measure of time which he devoted to the bank willingly and
without stint. His methods were ever straightforward and
honorable, bearing the mark of his fine integrity and open and
generous character. He won the confidence of all who knew
him by deserving it. He was a public-spirited and useful
citizen, giving freely of his time and means to promote the
best interests of Chicago."
At the next annual meeting of the stockholders George T.
Smith was chosen a director to succeed Mr. Lawrence.
[42]
RUINS OF THE SECOND BUILDING
After the Fire of 1871
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
In the spring of 1899, at the instance of Vice-President J. B.
Forgan, an important step in accord with modern thought and
policy was taken. A committee was, on March 28th, ap-
pointed to consider the feasibility of establishing a system of
pensions for old employees; if advisable, it was directed to
prepare and submit to the board the outlines of a plan to effect
this purpose. One month later a report favorable to the
project was presented, and the adoption of a set of rules was
recommended.
On October 31st Mr. Nickerson verbally stated to the
board of directors his intention again to retire from the presi-
dency at the beginning of the next year. Before the close of
1899 another veteran of prominence and distinction in its
affairs also severed his official connection with the institution.
At the meeting of December 26th the resignation of Franklin
D. Gray was read and accepted, with the following formal
expression :
a
'Resolved, that in taking this action we desire to express
to Mr. Gray and to place upon our records our sense of the
faithfulness and value of his long service, and to thank him
therefor in the name of the bank. He has been a director in
the present bank from the date of its organization, prior to
which time he had served the original First National Bank of
Chicago since 1866 in the same capacity, making a practically
continuous service of some thirty-three years. For fifteen
years he was also vice-president of the original bank. This
long and honorable connection is now severed with regret on
both sides and at Mr. Gray's request; and the thanks of this
board in behalf of the bank are hereby tendered to him."
[43]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Upon this same occasion, and in view of his impending re-
tirement from the active control, a formal request was made of
Mr. Nickerson that he sit for a life-sized oil portrait to be hung
upon the walls of the president's room. In due course this
picture was painted and presented by him as a gift to the
institution.
On January 9, 1900, the stockholders elected Otto Young to
succeed Franklin D. Gray, resigned, and Charles H. Conover
in the place of Roland C. Nickerson, on the board of directors.
Thereupon James B. Forgan was chosen president; George D.
Boulton, vice-president; Richard J. Street, cashier; Holmes
Hoge, Frank E. Brown, and Charles N. Gillett, assistant
cashiers; Emile K. Boisot, manager of the foreign exchange
and bond department; John E. Gardin, assistant manager of
same department, and Frank O. Wetmore, auditor.
Augustus A. Carpenter, a member of the board for seven-
teen years, tendered his resignation on June 26, 1900, the
directors testifying that "we desire to express to him our high
appreciation of him as a man and as a director of this bank
during his long term of service, and to thank him for these
valuable services. He entered the directory of this bank on
January 9, 1883, and has served thereon continuously up to the
present time. We deem it a privilege to have been associated
with him in the bank's affairs, and the severance of his con-
nection with us causes deep feelings of regret."
A momentous change was now on the eve of achievement.
Consolidation of capital had become the prevailing characteris-
tic of the age. With the increase in the magnitude of industrial
corporations, the financial interests of the country must keep
[44]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
pace. In order to afford the accommodation at times required
by manufacturing and commercial establishments of the first
rank, the department of credit must be organized on a similar
scale. The appreciation of these truths necessarily demanded
the extension of the facilities of banks, notwithstanding the
fact that they may already have been in the enjoyment of
large resources and the best possible equipment. Speedily
and efficaciously to satisfy these requirements it seemed most
expedient in such instances to unite the energies of two or more
pre-existing institutions. In accordance with this tendency,
the First National Bank and the Union National Bank, both
veterans and old-time rivals in the financial world of Chicago,
entered into negotiations during the spring of 1900, for the
purpose of determining upon what basis they might combine
their forces.
In June, 1900, President Forgan, together with Directors
Smith and Young, were appointed on the part of the former to
meet the representatives of the other bank for a preliminary
discussion of the proposition. Pursuant to the suggestion sub-
sequently made by this committee, a call was issued, on June
19th, to the stockholders, summoning a special meeting for
July 24th, to consider the advisability of augmenting the stock
of the First National Bank to $5,000,000, and for such other
action as might be taken.
On the day appointed the stockholders assembled, passed
the requisite resolutions to fix the capital at $5,000,000; and
enlarging the number of directors to fifteen, as provided in the
by-laws, elected John H. Barker, William L. Brown, D. Mark
Cummings, and John A. Spoor, all formerly on the directory of
the Union National Bank, as the additional members. David
[45]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
R. Forgan, lately president of the Union National Bank, was
elected to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of
Mr. Carpenter, and further chosen senior vice-president.
August Blum, formerly cashier of the liquidating bank, was like-
wise named one of the assistant cashiers to rank second in
point of seniority.
With these proceedings and the purchase of the assets of
the Union National Bank — the new stock of the First National
Bank, issued for such purpose, being subscribed by the former
stockholders of the retiring institution — the amalgamation was
effected September I, 1900. As a record of the magnitude of
the transaction and the interests involved, it seems appropriate
to show the respective conditions of the two banks just prior
to this event. The statement of the First National Bank on
June 29, 1900, showed:
ASSETS
Loans $28,710,352.00
United States bonds (to secure circulation) 700,000.00
United States bonds (to secure U. S. deposits) 300,000.00
United States bonds on hand 234,550.00
Other bonds 4, 572,497.00
Cash and exchange 21,757,276.00
$56,274,675.00
LIABILITIES
Capital and surplus $ 5,000,000.00
Undivided profits 673,802.00
Circulation 554>33o.oo
Deposits 50,046,543.00
$56,274,675.00
[46]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
The Union National Bank, on the same date, reported:
ASSETS
Loans $10,140,410.00
United States bonds (to secure circulation) 700,000.00
Other bonds 197,802.00
Cash and exchange 6,017,871.00
Real estate and fixtures 3 14,805.00
Premiums on United States bonds 31,550,00
$17,402,438.00
LIABILITIES
Capital and surplus $ 2,370,000.00
Undivided profits 74,703.00
Circulation 350,000.00
Deposits 14,607,735.00
\
$17,402,438.00
After the consolidation had been concluded, the statement
of the First National Bank on September 5, 1900, read:
ASSETS
Loans $39,2 19,804.00
United States bonds (to secure circulation) 1,000,000.00
United States bonds (to secure U. S. deposits) 300,000.00
United States bonds on hand 174,080.00
Other bonds 5,530,291.00
Cash and exchange 29,793,035.00
$76,017,210.00
LIABILITIES
Capital and surplus $ 7,000,000.00
Undivided profits 1,517,040.00
Circulation 533 ,300.00
Deposits 66,966,870.00
$76,017,210.00
[47]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
At the annual election of 190 1 the first complete board of
directors chosen under the new regime was composed of Samuel
M. Nickerson, Samuel W. Allerton, Nelson Morris, Eugene S.
Pike, Norman B. Ream, James B. Forgan, George D. Boulton,
George T. Smith, Otto Young, Charles H. Conover, John H.
Barker, William L. Brown, D. Mark Cummings, John A. Spoor,
and David R. Forgan. The officers then named were: Presi-
dent, James B. Forgan; vice-presidents, David R. Forgan and
George D. Boulton; cashier, Richard J. Street; assistant
cashiers, Holmes Hoge, August Blum, Frank E. Brown, Charles
N. Gillett; manager of foreign exchange and bond department,
Emile K. Boisot; assistant manager, John E. Gardin; auditor,
Frank O. Wetmore; attorney, Orville Peckham; assistant
attorney, James D. Woley.
In the practical working of the bank a slight change sub-
sequently occurred. On June 25, 1901, the foreign exchange
and bond business was separated into two distinct departments.
Of the former John E. Gardin was appointed manager, and Max
May assistant manager; of the latter Emile K. Boisot re-
mained in charge as manager.
As indicative .of the magnitude of the transactions of the
bank during 1 901, it may be noted that in that year the average
number of items handled each day was 64,402 ; the total volume
of business aggregated $8,199,570,400; the out-of-town items
collected daily averaged 11,030; the clearings during the
entire year were $1,550,471,975.78, equivalent to $5,000,000
per day. The total annual clearings of all the Chicago banks
were $7,756,372,455.31, showing that the share of the First
National Bank therein was one-fifth. As indicative of the
growth both of the bank and the city the clearings for 19 12
[48]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
may be quoted; for the First National Bank they were $3,-
309,322,58048 while for Chicago the figures were $15,380,-
795,541.82, this bank having 21.5 per cent of the total.
The tendency toward the amalgamation of financial forces,
as illustrated in the consolidation of the Union National Bank
with the First National Bank, was still further exemplified in
the spring of 1902 by the absorption of the Metropolitan Na-
tional Bank in the latter institution. The management of the
Metropolitan — in itself of large proportions, as measured by
the standards of quite a recent day — deemed it for the best
interests of those identified with it to seek association with
some larger bank. After a prosperous existence of eighteen
years it was considered advisable to combine its strength with
that of its well-known competitor. Thus it came to pass that
after the usual negotiations and formalities attendant upon
such a transaction the merger was accomplished. In the last
officially published statement, dated April 30, 1902, the Metro-
politan National Bank showed assets and liabilities as follows :
RESOURCES
Loans and discounts $14,727,611.61
Overdrafts secured and unsecured 4,758.83
United States bonds (at par) 1,000,000.00
Other stocks and bonds 860,233.33
Due from banks $3>°97>655.oo
Cash and checks for clearing 7,002,948.89 10,100,603.98
Due from United States Treasurer 42,000=00
$26,735,207.75
[49]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $ 2,000,000.00
Surplus fund and undivided profits 1,626,287.98
National bank notes outstanding 834,150.00
Dividends unpaid 1,504.50
Deposits 22,273,265.27
$26,735,207.75
Shortly after the consolidation, which was finally con-
summated on June 2, 1902, the statement of the First National
Bank, issued upon the call of the Comptroller of the Currency
July 16, 1902, reads:
ASSETS
Loans and discounts $60,714,406.72
United States bonds (par value) 1,794,740.00
Other bonds and securities (market value) 7,802,249.44
Cash resources:
Due from banks (Eastern exchange) $15,238,725.99
Checks for clearing house 3,024,650.22
Cash on hand 19,626,408.04
Due from United States Treasurer. 169,000.00 38,058,784.25
$108,370,180.41
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $ 8,000,000.00
Surplus fund 4,000,000.00
Undivided profits 2,095,966.41
Discount collected but not earned 378,268.78
Special deposit of United States bonds 200,000.00
Circulating notes received from Comp-
troller $996,000.00
Less amount on hand 265,810.00 730,190.00
Dividends unpaid 7,796.00
Deposits 92,957,959.22
$108,370,180.41
[50]
I ■
> 1 > > » J ,
• 1 •' • ■ I ,
I I > J 1
THE BANK'S THIRD BUILDING
Northwest Corner Dearborn and Monroe Streets
. . I , •
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
As a part of the arrangement for the union of the two banks,
Elbridge G. Keith, Adolphus C. Bartlett, and William J.
Watson, formerly directors in the Metropolitan National
Bank, were chosen to represent the interests of the liquidating
institution upon the directorate of the First National Bank.
Charles H. Conover at the same time retired from the board
of the latter. All the former officers of the First National
Bank were retained; of the gentlemen lately associated with
the Metropolitan, other than those already mentioned, Howard
H. Hitchcock was elected a vice-president to rank third in
seniority, and Edward Dickinson as assistant cashier, likewise
to be third among those occupying such positions. In both
consolidations positions for the clerical forces, corresponding
as nearly as possible to those held in their respective institu-
tions, were provided in the First National Bank, provision
being made for credit in the pension fund for previous service.
At the close of the year 1902, the surplus was increased by
the transfer of one million dollars from the profit and loss
account.
The bank's charter was extended under date of April 25,
1902, for a period of twenty years, in accordance with the Act
approved July 12, 1882, formal consent having been secured
from shareholders, representing more than two-thirds of the
stock outstanding. In recognition of the desirability of a
larger board of directors commensurate with increased and
growing business the articles of association were amended to
provide for twenty-one members, the following gentlemen,
chosen at the annual meeting in January of 1903, served
throughout the year, being re-elected January 12, 1904:
[5i]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Samuel W. Allerton, A. C. Bartlett, James B. Forgan,
Nelson Morris, Norman B. Ream, William L. Brown, John H.
Barker, David R. Forgan, Samuel M. Nickerson, George T #
Smith, Geo. D. Boulton, D. Mark Cummings, Elbridge G.
Keith, Eugene S. Pike, John A. Spoor, William J. Watson,
Otto Young, James H. Hyde, Charles Deering, Henry H.
Porter, Jr., George F. Baker
The era marked by consolidations may be fairly regarded
as having closed. The story of a new epoch equally remark-
able, but in other directions, remains to be told.
[52]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
WHEN the First National Bank originally occupied
quarters at the northwest corner of Dearborn
and Monroe streets in 1882, they were considered
ample for a long term of years. The National
Safe Deposit Company, the entire capital stock of which was
then owned by the bank, had erected upon ground leased from
the Board of Education an edifice especially for the accom-
modation of the First National Bank.
During the twenty years following the business of the
bank increased in an ever-ascending ratio, and gradually the
space used by it became more and more crowded — although
both the basement and some other portions of the building
had been taken for various purposes — until at length the neces-
sity for relief by the construction of an entirely new edifice
became imperative.
The decision was therefore taken, that the erection of a new
building upon the present site and such adjoining ground as
might be secured by purchase was not only necessary, but
perfectly feasible. Pursuant to this plan, after considerable
negotiation, the National Safe Deposit Company bought, at
an approximate cost of one million dollars, the two properties
on Monroe street just west of the ground held under lease, on
which stood the Montauk Block, a structure ten stories high,
one of the earliest skyscrapers built in Chicago, and the build-
ing of Bradner Smith & Co., a wholesale paper house; which
included a frontage of one hundred and twenty-three feet, and
with the one hundred and eight feet leased from the Board of
[53]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Education, makes a total of two hundred and thirty-one feet
frontage on Monroe street controlled by the bank. The
frontage on Dearborn street is one hundred and ninety-one
feet. Upon this entire property, including an area of forty-four
thousand one hundred and twenty-one square feet, a building
eighteen stories in height was erected, inclosing more than ten
and one-half millions of cubic feet. The cost, estimated at
five million dollars, was provided by an increase in the capital
of the National Safe Deposit Company to the sum of two
million five hundred thousand dollars, one half of which was
retained by the bank and the other half was subscribed by the
bank's shareholders, and by the issue of a similar amount of
four per cent bonds. Though the expense exceeded this es-
timate considerably, the company was able to successfully
carry the burden, and later when justified by its earnings,
capitalized the value by a stock dividend of forty per cent,
amounting to $1,000,000.
The building practically fronts on four sides, there being an
alley on the north and a court on the west. There is also an
interior court measuring sixty by ninety feet, thus providing
ample light and ventilation. The construction is entirely fire-
proof. The exterior walls are faced with granite and the court
walls with white enameled brick.
In general the design of the building is in the old Roman
style. The first three floors, sixty feet in height, which are
occupied by the bank and its affiliated institutions, are marked
by a cornice supported on massive Doric pilasters, forty feet
in height, inclosing the arched openings of the bank proper.
The aggregate height of these three lower stories is equal to
that of an ordinary five story building. The banking room is
[54]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
thus clearly indicated; and its appearance is imposing and in
proportion to its magnitude. Above this point the exterior
treatment consists of windows simply spaced to suit the offices
of the typical floors. The interior finish is entirely of ma-
hogany and white marble.
The design is severely simple in keeping with the natural
quality of granite, which material is used for the entire fronts
of the building. Good and impressive proportions are relied
upon for general effect and merely ornamental treatment is
everywhere avoided. The purpose is to suggest the strength
and dignity of this great financial institution.
There are two main entrances to the bank and office build-
ing. The principal one is from Dearborn street. Here the
vestibule is sixty feet wide, eighty feet deep and entirely finished
in marble, with the grand staircase of broad, easy steps ascend-
ing twelve feet from the street level to the banking-room floor.
On each side of the staircase five elevators connect with the
upper floors of the building.
The entrance from Monroe street has proved nearly as
important. The vestibule here is twenty-four feet wide by
fifty feet deep, with a broad staircase to the bank and seven
elevators to the offices in the building.
The main banking-room occupies the entire second floor,
together with an additional floor immediately above, over-
looking it through a central court. Architectually, these
stories are treated as a unit. The main entrance by the grand
staircase from Dearborn street is through an archway opening
immediately into the central court, measuring sixty by eighty
feet. It is surrounded by an arcade, and roofed over at a height
[55]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
of sixty-five feet with a crystal plateglass dome, thus being
brilliantly lighted. From this court staircases and a private
elevator connect with the First Trust and Savings Bank and
safe deposit vaults.
The National Safe Deposit Company occupies sixteen
thousand one hundred and four square feet of space on the
ground floor, with entrance through the vestibule on Dearborn
street. The Safety Deposit Vault itself measures forty-two
by fifty feet, comprising an area of two thousand one hundred
square feet, and contains fourteen thousand boxes, provision
being made for additions when required. Coupon-rooms,
committee-rooms, and reception-rooms for men and women are
provided. The office, vestibule, and all other appointments
are thoroughly in keeping with the general tone of the building
and finished in white marble and mahogany.
During its erection business uninterruptedly continued in
the old structure until the first portion of the new building on
the west half of the Monroe street frontage was completed.
The bank on December 5 and 6, 1903, removed into this
finished section, opening for business on Monday, December 7.
The old building at the corner of Dearborn and Monroe streets
was then demolished and the remainder of the new edifice
finally completed May 1, 1905. The foresight and wisdom of
those considering the future needs of this great institution
were never more fully demonstrated than in the housing of
the many-sided business. With most impressive architecture
has been combined practical utility so perfectly that today,
more than a decade since the plans were drawn, men whom
experience makes authoritative pronounce this banking room
unsurpassed in all the world.
[56]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
SCARCELY had the steel and granite of the new build-
ing marked the sky line of the city when there was
conceived in the minds of those directing the affairs
of the bank an idea pregnant with greater possibilities
than any action taken since the organization of the association.
This idea culminated on December 18, 1903, when the
directors declared a special dividend of $12.50 per share,
amounting to $1,000,000, to pay in the capital stock of the
First Trust and Savings Bank, a corporation organized under
the laws of the State of Illinois. Though the two banks are
separate and distinct as corporations, yet by the close associa-
tion it seems both logical and fitting that in these pages the
progress of the one be chronicled with that of the other.
During the months preceding an agreement had been con-
summated by and between James B. Forgan, David R. Forgan,
George D. Boulton, Howard H. Hitchcock and Richard J.
Street, as trustees, parties of the first part, and Otto Young and
all the other stockholders of the First National Bank of Chicago.
This agreement, bearing date November 2, 1903, states in its
preamble, that " It is deemed to be for the interest of the stock-
holders of said The First National Bank of Chicago that a
savings bank and trust company should be organized under the
laws of the State of Illinois, which shall be continuously owned
by the per tens who shall from time to time be the shareholders
of record of the said national bank, or such other bank as may
from time to time succeed to said national bank's good-will
and business, in proportion to the respective holdings of record
[57]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
of the stock of said national bank (or its successors as aforesaid,)
for the purpose, in part, of transacting for the patrons of said
national bank certain branches of business usually or often
transacted by banking institutions, but not clearly included
within the corporate powers of said national bank; and to
that end it is desirable to secure the consent in writing of all
the shareholders of said national bank to the plan for the
organization of said savings bank and trust company and the
ownership of its stock and the management of its affairs."
The document then provides for the consent of share-
holders ; the name and capital of the corporation ; the holding
of the stock by the president, three of the vice-presidents
and the cashier of the national bank, as trustees; the manner
of distribution of dividends ; the continuation or termination of
the trust; the liability of those beneficially interested; the
payment of the capital stock; that the beneficial interest shall
be evidenced by endorsement on the certificates of the national
bank; that the stock of the two banks shall be inalienable
during the life of the trust ; and, finally ; that the directors of the
savings bank shall be directors of the national bank.
The unanimous concurrence of the comparatively numerous
and widely separated shareholders of the First National Bank
was deemed essential, but, eventually all difficulties were over-
come and satisfactory and binding consent secured from all.
Submitted to the Comptroller of the Currency and to the
Auditor of the State, the plan received the sanction of both
officials. The latter's license to do business is dated December
24, 1903, and four days later the First Trust and Savings Bank
opened for business on the ground floor at 115 Monroe street,
in the completed section of the First National Bank Building.
[58]
LYMAN J. GAGE
« ' •< < >
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
The officers of the new institution were James B. Forgan,
president; David R. Forgan, vice-president; Emile K. Boisot,
vice-president and manager; David V. Webster, assistant sec-
retary; and Robert D. Forgan, assistant treasurer, serving
under a directorate and advisory committee, of which the board
of directors of the First National Bank comprised the member-
ship. Three principal divisions of the bank's business, the
Bond department, the Savings department and the Trust
department, were organized at the outset and have since con-
tinued, each distinct in character but working together for
the benefit of the bank and its patrons.
Success, in a measure unprecedented in the annals of
Chicago finance, came to the First Trust and Savings Bank
from the beginning. In the first seven days after its doors
were opened 1089 savings accounts had been started, all the
deposits showing a total of $3,195,591. A statement issued
under date of March 22, 1904, in response to the call of the
Auditor of the State gives the following figures :
RESOURCES
Bonds on hand $3,290,756.29
Loans and discounts 3,516,426.42
Cash and due from banks 1,574,664.05
$8,381,846.76
LIABILITIES
Capital $1,000,000.00
Undivided profits 68,286.55
Savings deposits $2,033,720.42
Other deposits 5,279,839.79 7,313,560.21
$8,381,846.76
On the twenty-ninth of the same month Louis Boisot was
[59]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
appointed Trust officer, the staff otherwise continuing without
change to December 27th, when D. V. Webster and R. D.
Forgan were promoted, respectively to be secretary and
treasurer. B
By the close of the year the savings depositors numbered
in excess of ten thousand, while deposits had reached a total of
$17,931,056. This volume of business, far even in excess of
expectations, made increased space desirable, almost essential,
and the adjoining frontage on Monroe street was secured,
giving a banking-floor then thought to be adequate for some
years to come.
This outline of the origin and early progress of the First
Trust and Savings Bank though brief, has covered a time of
some import in the parent institution, and in reverting to the
latter, this introduction will permit the concurrent considera-
tion of the affairs of both.
A number of changes in the official staff had marked the
period of transition from the old to the new building. On
December 29, 1903, John E. Gardin resigned as manager of the
Foreign Exchange department, Max May being appointed
his successor, with Fred I. Kent as assistant manager. Mr.
May held the post only until the following autumn, upon his
resignation Mr. Kent assumed the duties of the office. Frank
O. Wetmore, the bank's auditor since the creation of that
position, was appointed, on June 28, 1904, assistant cashier,
succeeding Edward Dickinson, resigned. M. D. Witkowsky
was made auditor.
The loss of George T. Smith to the board is recorded in the
minutes of meeting of November 29, 1904, as one "whose
[60]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
death had deprived the bank of an able and conscientious
director who had devoted his most efficient service to its
interests."
At this latter meeting the tendency of the bank to create
rather than follow precedent was again exemplified by the
board's adoption of a plan, previously submitted by President
Forgan for consideration. So incisive is the analysis of the
defects then existing, so unique in banking the remedy in-
volved, that this report, scientific in its deductions, compre-
hensive in its scope, is here given in detail:
"The proper organization of the work of the official staff
of the bank is a subject that has been frequently discussed
with me by individual members of this Board.
"The absorption of the Union National Bank (in 1900)
and of the Metropolitan National Bank (in 1902), together
with the rapid growth of the Bank's own business, has inter-
fered with the proper development and effective organization
of the work of the officers. Our chief aim has been to hold the
business acquired through these consolidations and the efforts
of the officers who came to us from these banks have been more
especially directed to this end. In this we have been quite
successful, more so than we thought possible when the consol-
idations were under contemplation. The Bank's business had
really outgrown the facilities of its office in the old building
prior to the consolidation with the Metropolitan National
Bank, and after that event were wholly inadequate. All this
has kept us in more or less confusion, preventing a proper and
effective organization of the work. Our efforts have been to
diffuse and have lacked concentration and grasp. This has
led to losses that might have been avoided had the watchful
[61]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
care and thought of the individual members of the staff been
more directly concentrated on and restricted to such a portion
of the business as each could reasonably be expected to master.
" In other words, our work has been generalized rather than
specialized. Our efforts have not been properly nor econom-
ically directed to accomplish the best results from the large
volume of business we do and responsibility has been so divided
that it has been impossible to fasten mistakes on anyone in
particular. Besides this, there has not been sufficient op-
portunity for the development and training of young men to
fill the places of the senior officers, when in the ordinary course
of events their services will be lost to the Bank. All this has
been known to me as it has to most of you for some time. Not
until now, however, when the facilities of our new office,
rapidly approaching completion, afford the opportunity, have
I seen my way to so re-organize the work of the officers under
me as to get more effective and more satisfactory results from
their services.
" I now propose to specialize and divide the work by assign-
ing to individual officers the care and management of the ac-
counts of customers in specific lines of business. A senior
and junior officer will work together in the management of all
of the accounts in a particular line of business. It may be
that they will be required to take charge of more than one line,
but they will only be held responsible for the accounts in their
particular line or lines of business assigned to them, and will
be relieved of responsibility for the accounts in other lines, as-
signed to other officers.
"Each senior officer will be responsible for the credits
granted in his division. A junior officer will be in constant
[62]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
touch with him and will attend to the details of the accounts
under his direction. Both will be expected to use their best
endeavor to work up new business in the special lines assigned
to them, and will annually prepare a report to the executive
committee embracing a statement of the condition of each
account, with a report as to whether it is satisfactory or other-
wise; also showing how the business of the bank has developed
during the year in the special lines of business under their
charge. In this way responsibility will be definitely fixed and
the management can be judged by results.
"I will personally keep in touch with the business, consulting
with the senior officers, criticising the accounts under their
charge and maintaining a careful supervision over them just
as I have done in the past. This re-organization of the work
should enable me to do my part more efficiently than has here-
tofore been possible. The reports will be arranged so that two
or three lines of business will be reported on each calendar
month."
The official organization became effective January I, 1905,
with six divisions, twenty-six sub-divisions, seven departments,
and officers, under James B. Forgan, president, as follows:
Division A — David R. Forgan, vice-president; E. S.
Thomas, assistant manager — collateral stocks and bonds;
grain, flour and feed; meat products, live stock commission;
coal; doctors and lawyers.
Division B — George D. Boulton, vice-president ; Frank E.
Brown, assistant manager — dry goods, millinery; woolens,
clothing, cloaks; furnishing goods, hats and caps; jewelry and
merchanishing sundries; transportation; and ladies' accounts.
[63]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Division C — Howard H. Hitchcock, vice-president ; Charles
N. Gillett, assistant manager — agricultural implements, bug-
gies, automobiles and other vehicles; iron and steel products;
lumber, furniture, etc.; manufacturing sundries.
Division D — Richard J. Street, manager; Frank O. Wet-
more, cashier — stone, brick, cement, contractors; wallpaper,
paints, oils, glass, etc. ; boots, shoes, leather, hides and wool ;
real estate and insurance; publishing, printing, engraving and
paper ; miscellaneous.
Division E — Holmes Hoge, manager; Charles H. Newhall,
assistant manager — wholesale and retail liquors, brewers and
brewers' supplies; tobacco; produce commission and cold
storage; groceries, drugs, restaurants; bakers and hotels.
Division F — August Blum, manager; Herbert W. Brough,
assistant manager — banks and bankers.
Law department — Orville Peckham, attorney; James D.
Woley, assistant attorney; Bond department — Emile K.
Boisot, manager; Foreign Exchange department — Fred I.
Kent, manager; John J. Arnold, assistant manager; Auditing
department — M. D. Witkowsky, auditor; Discount and Col-
lateral department — E. J. Blossom, manager; Credit and
Statistical department — H. A. Howland, manager; Clerical
and Bookkeeping departments — William H. Monroe, assistant
cashier.
Notable even at this time of radical change is the appoint-
ment of Frank O. Wetmore as cashier and that of William
H. Monroe as the only assistant cashier.
At the annual meeting of this year (1905) two new members,
[64]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
A. A. Carpenter, Jr., and Harold F. McCormick, were elected
to the board, Mr. Nickerson withdrawing from its council.
In May the board was again subjected to loss through the
death of Elbridge G. Keith, president of the Metropolitan
National Bank during the entire eighteen years of its existence,
and since 1902 a director of this bank. From an appreciation
upon the minutes is quoted:
"We desire to record our appreciation of his noble char-
acter and useful life and our deep sense of loss in his death. Mr.
Keith was an example of the highest type of American citizen-
ship. While conservative and successful as a banker, he was
ever an energetic leader in any cause which had for its object
the upbuilding of our city, the purification of our politics or
the helping of the poor and needy. He commanded the af-
fection as well as the respect of all who were associated with
him and will long be remembered as one of the best citizens
Chicago ever had."
To fill the vacancy on the board Howard H. Hitchcock was
elected. On December 26, George D. Boulton, who had served
the bank in various capacities for forty years, resigned as vice-
president and director. To this service and to the man was
tendered, by the board, an expression of thanks and apprecia-
tion with cordial wishes for health and happiness. On this
same day were tendered the resignations of James H. Hyde as
director and Frank E. Brown as assistant division manager.
Assembled on January 9, 1906, the shareholders elected
Emile K. Boisot and E. T. Jeffery to fill the vacancies on the
board, the personnel otherwise remaining as before. The
resignations just noted made essential a rearrangement of the
[65]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
staff. Frank O. Wetmore, cashier, was placed in charge of
Division B, with M. D. Witkowsky as assistant manager, the
latter being succeeded as auditor by Arthur W. Newton;
Henry A. Howland became assistant manager of Division C,
E. A. Erickson assuming the duties of manager in the Credit
and Statistical department. In the First Trust and Savings
Bank on the same date Burt C. Hardenbrook was appointed
manager of the Bond department and on March 31, 1906,
after this bank took charge of the First National Bank building,
as agent for the National Safe Deposit Company, Robert
L. Davis was appointed manager of the real estate department.
The year was remarkable in the annals of Chicago finance
as that in which the banking institutions of the city assumed
the obligations of two insolvent banks and a trust company
which had been dominated and wrecked by their president.
So abhorrent were the conditions found, and so unable public
officials under existing law to cope with possible recurrences
of the situation, that there was appointed by the Chicago
Clearing House Association an examiner whose duty included
the examination of members of the association and all other
banks which clear through members. The innovation, an
unqualified success, has been an important factor in maintain-
ing the credit of Chicago's banks upon the highest plane.
From the standpoint of earnings as well as in volume of
deposits the year 1906 was most satisfactory. The former,
due largely to the high rates of interest prevailing during the
year, exceeded $1,400,000, enabling the directors to transfer
$1,000,000 from profit and loss account to the surplus fund.
For the first time in the records of the association the deposits
averaged in excess of one hundred million dollars. At the
[66]
> t > 3 > > »
J , ■ > . 1 , ,
> > <t .> » J
* » > t
JAMES B. FORGAN
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
close of the year the management reported, with great satis-
faction, that the organization of the bank's business into
divisions, inaugurated two years previously, had justified every
expectation entertained at the time of its inception. Under
the new system the business of the bank had been handled
with greater efficiency and with more satisfactory results, both
to the bank and to its clients, than could have been accom-
plished under the methods formerly in vogue. The period had
been a triumphant vindication of a plan of bank-management
in which this bank was the pioneer.
The First Trust and Savings Bank had kept up its phe-
nomenal growth and very satisfactory earning capacity. The
capital account was doubled by the transfer of one million
dollars from the surplus, leaving one-half million dollars in
the latter account, thus placing the bank on a broader capital
basis, in keeping with its increased business.
But with this material success came losses, not measurable
by money value, but none the less severe. Otto Young, since
1900 a member of the board, was removed by death on No-
vember 30, 1906. On December 24, 1906, David R. Forgan
resigned as director and vice-president, having occupied both
offices since the absorption of the Union National Bank, also
severing all connections with the First Trust and Savings Bank.
Holmes Hoge, manager of Division E, also resigned upon the
same date. To fill the vacancies on the board were elected
James J. Hill and Benjamin Allen.
At the opening of 1907 changes again take place in the
official staff : Howard H. Hitchcock as senior vice-president is in
charge of Division A; F. O. Wetmore and August Blum are made
[67]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
vice-presidents; Charles N. Gillett being appointed cashier.
Charles H. Newhall becomes manager of Division E with John
P. Oleson as assistant manager. A. W. Newton takes up duties
in Division D as assistant manager, being succeeded as Auditor
by H. L. Droegemueller, and W. J. Lawlor is made assistant
manager in the Credit and Statistical department. The entire
board, without change, continued until the death of Nelson
Morris on August 27, 1907, terminating a service which had been
uninterruptedly given to the bank for over thirty-five years.
To the institution he was ever a tower of strength, a wise and
conservative counselor; to its management he was, in truth,
an inspiration for all that leads to honorable ends. At the
September meeting of the board Edward Morris was elected
to fill the vacancy.
The brief, but violent, panic of 1907 cannot, for these pages,
be better described than by quotation from President Forgan's
address at the bank's annual dinner:
"We have finished another year's voyage on the great
sea of time and our good old ship, the First National, with its
sister ships, the First Trust and the National Safe Deposit
Company, have come into port undamaged by the stress of the
storm they experienced towards the end of the voyage. It is
a great satisfaction to us, the officers of these good ships, that
we have not only taken care of our own craft but have been able
to afford assistance by throwing out a life-line here and there
not only to other financial craft of our own description, but to
many ships of commerce caught in the same storm.
"At the beginning the weather was fair, the sailing smooth
and the prospects bright for one of the best and most profitable
[68]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
annual voyages in our history. We had not gotten more than
half way, however, when clouds appeared on the horizon which
grew darker and darker until they broke in one of the fiercest
financial storms within the memory of man. We were com-
pelled to adopt means for safety and self -protection to which
we were unaccustomed, never before having had to resort to
them. Under the administration of a hard-working and de-
voted Clearing House Committee these means have been so
administered in Chicago that they have brought the whole of
the Chicago financial fleet through the storm without the loss
of a single ship and with but few wrecks among the vessels of
commerce. We were not, of course, able to bring our cargo
entire into port. A considerable part of our Walsh consign-
ment, or assignment, had to be thrown overboard in the mid-
ocean of contingency and some other commercial consign-
ments that went bad on the voyage had to be unloaded into
the lifeboat of Debit Contingent, from which, however, we
look for considerable salvage.
"After this trying experience and the buffeting we have
gone through, what remains of the cargo is in good condition
and the net result of the voyage is highly satisfactory to our
own immediate craft and their owners. As we show up in our
annual statements no one could think that we had weathered
a tornado or breasted a heavy sea. We came into port with
colors flying, not a leak sprung, not a sail rent, not a spar
broken. Undaunted by our strenuous experience and not un-
duly elated with our success, but with renewed confidence in
our ships and in their organization and with the brightest
hopes, we have started out on the voyage of 1908 with full
assurance that our past records will be fully maintained what-
ever conditions may be."
[69]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
The year closed with the transfer of one million dollars
from profit and loss account to the surplus fund, concrete
evidence that the effects of the panic were not serious.
When the first call of the succeeding year was made by the
Comptroller of the Currency the effects of the stringency so far
as deposits were concerned had passed. At the close of busi-
ness February 14, 1908, the First National Bank reported:
ASSETS
Loans and discounts $65,640,599.91
United States bonds (par value) 4,491,000.00
Bonds to secure U. S. deposits other than U. S. bonds. 1,696,000.00
Other bonds and securities (market value) 7,257,436.01
National Safe Deposit Co. stock (bank building) . . . 1,250,100.00
Cash resources:
Due from banks (Eastern exch.) . . . $20,123,676.92
Checks for clearing house 3,547,008.43
Cash on hand 21,219,220.28
Due from U. S. Treasurer 534,100.00 45,424,005.63
$i25,759,i4i.5S
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $ 8,000,000.00
Surplus fund 7,000,000.00
Other undivided profits 744,658.24
Discount collected but not earned 436,290.80
Special deposit of United States bonds 2,827,000.00
Special deposit of other bonds 1,346,000.00
Circulating notes received $3,221,997.50
Less amount on hand 0.00 3,221,997.50
Dividends declared but unpaid 2,876.00
Reserved for taxes 16,000.00
Deposits 102,164,319.01
$125,759,141.55
[70]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
The figures of the First Trust and Savings Bank on the
same date were:
ASSETS
Bonds $10,847,145.35
Time loans on collateral 8,643,697.69
Demand loans on collateral $4,690,028.74
Cash and due from banks 9,823,808.45 14,513,837.19
$34,004,680.23
LIABILITIES
Capital $ 2,000,000.00
Surplus and undivided profits 1,476,576.32
Time deposits $23,236,386.15
Demand deposits 7,291,717.76 30,528,103.91
$34,004,680.23
On January 14, 1908, Frank O. Wetmore was relieved of
special duties as manager of Division B, in order that his
services might be devoted to assisting the President in the
supervision of all the credits of the bank. William J. Lawlor
was appointed at the same meeting manager of the Credit and
Statistical department, the staff otherwise remaining unchanged
until toward the close of the year, when, on December 24, Fred
I. Kent resigned and on the same day Richard J. Street, by
resignation, terminated an active service which had continued
more than forty years with credit to himself and profit to the
institution.
Promotions again marked the official staff at the opening
of 1909. M. D. Witkowsky and A. W. Newton were appointed
managers of their respective divisions; H. H. Heins and A.
C. C. Timm were made assistant managers; John J. Arnold,
acting manager, and Charles P. Clifford, assistant manager,
[71]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
took charge of the Foreign Exchange department, and John
F. Hagey became assistant attorney. In the First Trust and
Savings Bank, Frank M. Gordon was appointed assistant
manager of the bond department.
As the result of the business of 1909 the directors after pay-
ing the usual dividends, again transferred one million dollars
to surplus account, making the surplus equal to the capital.
The First Trust and Savings Bank, having accumulated capital
demanded by the growth of business, was placed upon a divi-
dend basis and quarterly disbursements of four per cent upon
its capital were made, thus placing shareholders of the national
bank in receipt of dividends equivalent to sixteen per cent upon
its stock.
Since 1902 the capital had remained unchanged, but, in
keeping with both growth and demand, an increase was deemed,
by the directors, to be advisable. In accordance with this view
a proposition to issue twenty thousand new shares to stock-
holders of record at two hundred dollars per share was sub-
mitted to the latter body, which voted at the annual meeting
on January 11, 19 10, that the stock of the bank be in-
creased to $10,000,000, the action to become effective April
first. On this date the surplus was augmented by $2,000,000
making it equal to the capital, and the capital stock of the
First Trust and Savings Bank was increased to $2,500,000.
The articles of association were also amended to provide for
increase of the board of directors to twenty-five, and Bernard
E. Sunny, Clarence M. Woolley and Frank O. Wetmore were
elected to membership. The only changes made in the official
staff at this time were the appointments of John F. Hagey,
formerly assistant attorney, to assistant manager of Division
[72]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
F, in place of Herbert W. Brough, who had died suddenly in
the preceding December, and the promotion of John J.
Arnold from acting manager in the Foreign Exchange depart-
ment to manager. Roy C. Osgood was appointed assistant
trust officer in the First Trust and Savings Bank.
Demonstrated success had proved the divisional form of
official organization thoroughly satisfactory, with the single
exception that the titles, manager and assistant manager, un-
usual as applied to bank officers, did not indicate either position
or rank to customers or the public. In making the system
permanent the board, on June 28, 1910, appointed Emile K.
Boisot, Charles N. Gillett (who continued as cashier), Charles
H. Newhall, M. D. Witkowsky and Arthur W. Newton vice-
presidents, and Edward S. Thomas, Henry A. Howland, John
P. Oleson, H. H. Heins, A. C. C. Timm and John F. Hagey
assistant cashiers of the bank. Their duties remained as before,
but the technical change undoubtedly added considerable
prestige to the positions.
Before the year closed the board was subjected to heavy
loss in the death of John H. Barker, a man of unusual achieve-
ment in the business world and a source of strength in the
councils of the bank. On January 10, 191 1, Charles H. Morse
was elected to succeed Mr. Barker, the board otherwise re-
maining unchanged. New appointments made C. M. Wal-
worth manager of the Discount and Collateral department,
succeeding Edward J. Blossom, retired; and Edward E.
Brown assistant attorney, a position for some time held, but
without official title.
If from sentiment alone, considerable importance attaches
[73]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
to the action of the Comptroller of the Currency on May 24,
191 1, in restoring the original designation, "The First National
Bank of Chicago, Number 8," thus officially recognizing the
continuing existence of the bank.
By the close of 1910, more than sixty thousand savings ac-
counts were upon the books of the First Trust and Savings
Bank, which, with a larger volume of business in other de-
partments, made imperative the demand for additional space.
An area of slightly over three thousand square feet was available
on the ground floor at the northeast corner of the building,
which after necessary alterations was occupied in June of 191 1
by the Trust department, the space vacated being taken for
the Savings department. With this acquisition the bank has a
total frontage of fifty-seven feet on Dearborn street and one
hundred thirty-eight feet on Monroe street, and nearly twelve
thousand square feet of floor area. Plans under contempla-
tion, which include the occupancy of the southeast corner, will
add some sixteen hundred square feet to the ground floor area,
with additional working space and vaults in the basement.
On the recommendation of the directors the shareholders
of the First Trust and Savings Bank at a special meeting held
on December 19, 191 1, voted to increase the capital stock of
the First Trust and Savings Bank to $5,000,000 by transferring
$2 , 500,000 from surplus account the last day of the year. Each
shareholder had now a beneficial interest of half a share in the
First Trust and Savings Bank stock for every share of First
National Bank stock owned; the ratio remains unchanged.
The board and official staff of the First National Bank are
again subjected to change. Charles Deering, on December 26,
[74]
> t ' , »
OFFICIAL STAFF OF 1910
First row (seated) left to right: Messrs. Gillett, Wetmore, Boisot, Forgan,
Hitchcock, Blum.
Second row: Messrs. Monroe, Howland, Arnold, Timm, Newton, Blos-
som, Hagey, Heins.
Third row: Messrs. Oleson, Droegemueller, Newhall, Witkowsky,
Lawlor, Peckham, Thomas, Clifford.
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
191 1, resigned, being succeeded by William J. Louderback. Two
weeks later George F. Baker also withdrew from the board,
and Marvin Hughitt was elected to the vacancy. The most
important promotion of 19 12 was the appointment of Henry
A. Howland to the cashiership, succeeding Charles N. Gillett,
the latter continuing as vice-president in charge of Division
C, to which was also appointed William J. Lawlor with the
title of assistant cashier. The force in Division F, handling
the accounts of banks and bankers, was augmented by the
appointment of R. F. Newhall and George H. Dunscomb as
assistant cashiers, both of whom had been active in the work
of this division. Charles R. McKay, manager of the Transit
and General Books department, was made an official, and J.
W. Lynch was placed at the head of the Credit and Statistical
department. The retirement of Orville Peckham, who for
more than thirty years had been the legal advisor of the bank,
was followed by the appointment of Edward E. Brown as
attorney and John Nash Ott, assistant attorney.
In accordance with a policy adopted by the directors there
was no division during 19 12 of the profits of the First Trust
and Savings Bank. In lieu thereof special dividends equal to
five per cent for the year on the capital stock of the First
National Bank were paid out of its earnings. The First Trust
and Savings Bank was thus enabled to increase its surplus
account from $1,000,000 to $2,500,000. Should the earnings
of the First National Bank permit, this policy will be con-
tinued until the surplus of the First Trust and Savings Bank is
equal to its capital.
In the latter bank, on January 14, 1913, Louis Boisot was
appointed vice-president, retaining the title of trust officer;
[75]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Burt C. Hardenbrook became the incumbent of the newly
created position of cashier, Frank M. Gordon succeeding him
as manager bond department ; C. G. Fleager was made assist-
ant treasurer, and Arlan W. Converse assistant secretary.
It is interesting to note in the absence of change in board
and official staff of the First National Bank that Samuel W.
Allerton, binding the present to the past, continues as a di-
rector, in which capacity he has served the bank continuously
since the first organization, and to whom was issued certificate
number one in 1863.
The first statement issued upon call of the Comptroller
in 1913, the semi-centennial year of the First National Bank,
shows at the close of business February 4:
ASSETS
Loans and Discounts $85,586,825.73
United States bonds (par value) 2,359,000.00
Other bonds and securities (market value) 6,071,245.81
National Safe Deposit Co. stock (bank building) . . . 1,250,000.00
Cash resources:
Due from U. S. Treasurer $ 925,450.00
Cash and due from banks 50,896,519.84 51,821,969.84
$147,089,041.38
LIABILITIES
Capital stock paid in $10,000,000.00
Surplus fund 10,000,000.00
Other undivided profits 1,897,477.08
Discount collected but not earned 637,822.80
Special deposit of United States bonds 1,700,000.00
[76]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Circulating notes received $2,109,000.00
Less amount on hand 0.00 $ 2,109,000,00
Dividends declared but unpaid 1^965.75
Reserved for taxes 53,136.2 1
Deposits 120,689,639.54
$147,089,041.38
The First Trust and Savings Bank, reported at the same
date.
ASSETS
Bonds $20,840,553.91
Time loans on collateral 18,643,773.64
Demand loans on collateral $12,291,620.94
Cash and due from banks 10,923, 713.65 23,215,334.59
$62,699,662.14
LIABILITIES
Capital $ 5,000,000.00
Surplus and undivided profits 2,644,849.20
Reserve for interest and taxes 96,641.65
Time deposits $43,592,382.31
Demand deposits 11,365,788.98 54,958,171.29
$62,699,662.14
Half a century has elapsed since the passage of the National
Bank Act, and the organization of the First National Bank of
Chicago under its provisions. Some conception of the steady
progress which the bank itself has made during this period —
until now it has a balance sheet exceeding $145,000,000 — will
be formed, still it may not be realized, without reflection, what
a force it has been in the advancement of the city and the
enormous territory commercially tributary thereto. While it
has certainly profited by the phenomenal growth of the com-
[77]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
munity, it has on the other hand contributed in no small
measure to the extension of the trade and the development of
the material interests of those whom it serves.
The past progress and present position of Chicago are in a
great measure attributable to the sound condition of its prin-
cipal representatives in the world of finance. Among these in-
stitutions, the First National Bank and the First Trust and
Savings Bank not only hold high rank by virtue of the volume
of their business, but have also won universal recognition as
safe and conservative, while they are at the same time not the
less thoroughly equipped and fully cognizant of the needs and
requirements of those who have made Chicago the great
central market, and believe it a city of destiny.
Without desire or intention to eulogize the First National
Bank, or by induction the First Trust and Savings Bank, it is
believed that some few words of satisfaction at its past career
can be uttered. By reason of the excellent management which
it has uninterruptedly enjoyed, the high financial policy which
it has strenuously advocated, and the respect and esteem of the
community which it has never sacrificed, this institution has
attained a reputation well merited by its record. Appreciative
of the consideration which it has received, and always anxious
to conserve the best interests of those who in any way are con-
nected with it, the First National Bank may still justly an-
ticipate many long years of public service. If the experience
of the past is a fair criterion upon which to hazard a prediction,
a yet greater future is in store for the First National Bank of
Chicago.
[78]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF
DIRECTORS OF THE FIRST
NATIONAL BANK OF
CHICAGO
From 1863 to 19 13
Aiken, Edmund - - - -
1863-1867
Allen, Benjamin - - - -
1906-
Allen, Benjamin F. - - -
1871-1874
Allerton, Samuel W. - - -
1863-
Baker, George F. - - - -
1903-1912
1900-1910
Bartlett, Adolphus C. - -
1902-
Boisot, Emile K. - - - -
1906-
Boulton, George D. - - -
1897-1905
Bronson, Tracy J. - - - -
1863-1867
Brown, William L. - - -
1900-
Carpenter, A. A. - - - -
1 883-1 900
Carpenter A. A. Jr. - - -
1905-
Conover, Charles H. - - -
1900-1902
Crosby, Isaac - - - - -
1876-1877
Crumbaugh, Frederick - -
1869-1872
Cummings, D. Mark - -
1900-
Deering, Charles - - - -
1903-1911
Fargo, James C. - - - -
1863.
Forgan, David R. - - - -
1 900-1 906
Forgan, James B. - - - -
1892-
1870-1897
Gray, Franklin D. - - - -
1 866-1899
[79]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Hall, Elbridge G. - - - - 1863-1870
Hill, James J. 1906-
Hitchcock, H. H. - - - - 1905-
Howard, Samuel G. D. - - 1863-1866
Hughitt, Marvin - - - - 19 12-
Hutchinson, Benj. P. - - - 1 863-1 867
Hyde, James H. - - - - 1903-1905
Jeffery, E. T. 1906-
Keith, Elbridge G. - - - 1 902-1 905
Lawrence, E. F., 1870-1876, 1877-1898
Lewis, Henry B. - - - - 1867-1869
Louderback, Wm. J. - - - 19 11-
McCormick, H. F. - - -
1905-
Morris, Edward - - - -
1907-
Morris, Nelson - - - -
1872-1907
Morse, Charles H. - - -
- 1911-
Nickerson, Roland C. - -
- 1892-1900
Nickerson, Samuel M. - -
1863-1905
Peckham, Orville, 1 888-1 890, 1 891-1892
Pike, Eugene S. - - - - 1885-
Porter, Henry H. - - - - 1868-1891
Porter, Henry H. Jr. - - - 1903-
Ream, Norman B. - - - - 1890-
Rice, Byron 1863-1868
Sherman, John B. - - - - 1863-1867
Singer, Horace M. - - - - 1879-1888
Smith, George T. - - - - 1 899-1 904
Spoor, John A. - - - - - 1900-
[80]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
bunny, Bernard h>. - - -
IQIO-
Symonds, Henry R. - - -
1882-1892
Talcott, Mancel - - - -
1867-1878
Thompson, Daniel - - -
1869-1871
Walker, George C. - - -
1867-1869
Watson, William J. - - -
1902-
Webster, George - - - -
1867-1870
Wetmore, Frank 0. - - -
1910-
Wilmarth, Henry M. - - ■
■ 1874-1885
Woolley, Clarence M. - -
- 1910-
1900-1906
[81]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
OFFICERS OF THE FIRST
NATIONAL BANK OF
CHICAGO
From 1863 to 19 13
Presidents
Edmund Aiken - - - -
1863-1867
Samuel M. Nickerson - -
1867-1891
Lyman J. Gage - - - -
1891-1897
Samuel M. Nickerson - -
1897-1900
James B. Forgan - - - -
1900-
Vice-Presidents
James C. Fargo - - - -
1863.
Samuel M. Nickerson - -
1863-1867
Franklin D. Gray - - - -
1867-1882
Lyman J. Gage - - - -
1882-1891
Henry R. Symonds - - -
1891-1892
James B. Forgan - - - -
1892-1900
David R. Forgan - - - -
1 9 00- 1 906
Geo. D. Boulton - - - -
1 900- 1 905
H. H. Hitchcock - - - -
1902-
Frank 0. Wetmore - - -
1907-
August Blum -----
1907-
E. K. Boisot
1910-
Charles N. Gillett - - -
1910-
Charles H. Newhall - - -
1910-
M. D. Witkowsky - - -
1910-
Arthur W. Newton - - -
1910—
Second Vice-Presidents
Henry M. Kingman - - - 1891.
James B. Forgan - - - - 1892.
George D. Boulton - - 189 7 -1900
[82]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Cashiers
Edward E. Braisted - - - 1 863-1 866
Cornelius R. Field - - - 1 866-1 868
Lyman J. Gage - - - - 1868-1882
Henry R. Symonds - - - 1882-1891
Richard J. Street - - - - 1 891-1905
Frank O. Wetmore - - - 1905-1907
Charles N. Gillett - - - 1907-1912
Henry A. Howland - - - 19 12-
Assistant Cashiers
A. A. Wheeler 1864-1865
Charles J. Schmitt - - - 1 866-1 868
Henry R. Symonds - - - 1869-1882
Henry M. Kingman - - - 1882-1891
Holmes Hoge ----- 1891-1905
August Blum ----- 1900-1905
Frank E. Brown - - - - 1 900-1 905
Charles N. Gillett - - - 1900-1905
Edward Dickinson - - - 1902-1904
Frank O. Wetmore - - - 1904-1905
William H. Monroe - - - 1905-
Edward S. Thomas - - - 1910-
Henry A. Howland - - - 1910-1912
John P. Oleson - - - - 19 10-
H. H. Heins ----- 1910-
A. C. C. Timm - - - - 1910-
John F. Hagey - - - - 1910-
William J. Lawlor - - - 19 12-
R. F. Newhall - - - - 19 12-
George H. Dunscomb « - 19 12-
Second Assistant Cashiers
Richard J. Street - - - - 1882-1891
Frank E. Brown - - - - 1897-1900
[83]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
Auditors
Frank 0. Wetmore - - -
1897-1904
M. D. Witkowsky - - -
1 904- 1 906
A. W. Newton - - - -
- 1 906-1 907
H. L. Droegemueller - -
- 1907-
OFFICIAL DIVISIONS
Managers
Richard J. Street - - - - 1 905-1 908
Holmes Hoge 1905-1906
August Blum 1 905-1 907
Charles H. Newhall - - - 1907-1910
M. D. Witkowsky - - - 1909-19 10
A. W. Newton 1909-1910
Assistant Managers
E. S. Thomas 1905-19 10
Frank E. Brown - - - - 1905.
Charles N. Gillett - - - 1905-1907
Charles H. Newhall - - - 1905-1907
Herbert W. Brough - - - 1905-19 10
M. D. Witkowsky - - - 1906-1909
Henry A. Howland - - - 1906-19 10
John P. Oleson - - - - 1907-1910
A. W. Newton - - - - 1907-1909
H. H. Heins 1909-1910
A. C. C. Timm - - - - 1909-1910
John F. Hagey - - - - 1910.
[84]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
OFFICIAL DEPARTMENTS
Managers
Geo. D. Boulton - - - - 1 891-1897
Emile K. Boisot - - - - 1897-1910
John E. Gardin - - - - 1901-1903
Max May ------ 1903-1904
Fred I. Kent ----- 1905-1908
E. J. Blossom ----- 1905-1911
H. A. Howland - - - - 1905-1906
E. A. Erickson ----- 1906-1908
William J. Lawlor - - - - 1908-19 12
John J. Arnold ----- 1909-
C. M. Walworth - - - - 191 1-
Charles R. McKay - - - 19 12-
J. W. Lynch 1912-
Assistant Managers
John E. Gardin - - - - 1897-1901
Max May ------ 1901-1903
Fred I. Kent ----- 1903-1905
John J. Arnold ----- 1 905-1 909
W. J. Lawlor ----- 1907-1908
Charles P. Clifford - - - 1909-
Attorneys
Orville Peckham - - - - 1879-1912
Edward E. Brown - - - 19 12-
Assistant Attorneys
James D. Woley - - - - 1 900-1 908
John F. Hagey ----- 1909-1910
Edward E. Brown - - - 1911-1912
John Nash Ott 1912-
[85]
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF CHICAGO
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[86]
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[87]
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY
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